Hydrocarbons

Abstract

Hydrocarbons (HCs) are organic compounds that contain primarily hydrogen and carbon atoms. Although most HC exposures occur in occupational settings dealing with various solvents, they can be found in products in every household. Therefore, the risk of exposure in everyday life is high. This review discusses the toxicokinetics, pathophysiology, common clinical presentation, and management of HCs. The three major classes of HCs (aliphatic, aromatic, and halogenated) are closely examined. An in-depth look is taken at commonly encountered HCs with unique toxicologic characteristics. The principles of toxicity, immediate stabilization, diagnosis, definitive management, disposition, and outcomes of these specific HCs are defined. Tables describe HCs commonly found in the household, toxic metabolites and viscosities of common HCs, and target organs of the toxic effects of common alihepatic, halogenated, and aromatic HCs both early and late after exposure. Figures show the structure of the various HCs described in the review. This review contains 13 highly rendered figures, 6 tables, and 116 references.