Exposure of the Skin to Methyl Bromide: A Study of Six Cases Occupationally Exposed to High Concentrations during Fumigation

Abstract

<jats:p> 1 The effects of exposure of the skin to high concentrations of methyl bromide were studied in 6 cases, who had been unintentionally exposed. </jats:p><jats:p> 2 Exposure to high concentrations of methyl bromide (approximately 40 g/m<jats:sup>3</jats:sup>) for 40 min can lead to redness and blistering of the skin. This cannot be prevented by wearing standard protective clothing. </jats:p><jats:p> 3 Skin lesions show a preference for relatively moist skin areas. </jats:p><jats:p> 4 Plasma bromide levels were highest immediately following exposure (mean 9.0 ± 1.4 mg/l) and fell in subsequent hours (mean 6.8 ± 2.3 mg/l 12 h after the exposure), suggesting absorption of (methyl) bromide through the skin. </jats:p><jats:p> 5 No systemic effects were noted in this series. </jats:p><jats:p> 6 Fumigation with methyl bromide should not be done in such a way as to require the presence of workers inside closed areas, where methyl bromide is released. </jats:p>

Central Nervous System Toxicity and Early Peripheral Neuropathy Following Dermal Exposure to Methyl Bromide

“…1 Signs and symptoms of acute toxicity are associated with the central nervous system (CNS), as well as with the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. [2][3][4] Dermal exposure may result in intense blisters and severe burns. 2,3 Severe symptoms such as coma and seizures 5 are usually reported after inhalation exposure to MB.…”

“…[2][3][4] Dermal exposure may result in intense blisters and severe burns. 2,3 Severe symptoms such as coma and seizures 5 are usually reported after inhalation exposure to MB. 4,5 In this report, we describe a case of acute MB dermal exposure that resulted in mild CNS toxicity and early signs of peripheral neuropathy.…”

Inhibition of Creatine Kinase Activity in Rat Brain by Methyl Bromide Gas

“…Although rebutted recently (Garnier et al, 1996), usefulness of Nacetylcysteine (NAC) was suggested in intoxication with methyl bromide (Zwaveling et al, 1987) based on a hypothesis that methyl bromide reacts with sulfhydryl groups. Indeed, methyl bromide has been shown to deplete glutathione in rat brain (Davenport et al, 1992).…”

Addendum to Methyl bromide [BAT Value Documentation 2014]

“…Based on the results of a case study (Zwaveling et al 1987) and of model calculations no toxicologically relevant contribution of dermal absorption is to be expected when the MAK value is observed. Peak exposures and intoxication due to improper handling of the fumigant, often together with a lack of or inadequate protective clothing occur frequently.…”