PVC-PLASTICIZER DEHP - ASPECTS OF METABOL ISM AND TOXICITY

Di-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is the most important compound among a group Of phthalic acid alkyl esters used as plasticizers for PVC-pr oducts. Since DEI-IP is not covalently bound to the polymer, it can be released from the plastic matrix. Its migration from PVC-based tubing s, storage bags and dialysis bags contributes substantially to the inc reased exposure of patients to plasticizers. After oral, intravenous o r inhalational uptake, DEHP is hydrolyzed to mono-(2-ethylhexyl)phthal ate (MEHP) and 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH). These cleavage products are furt her metabolized to a variety of oxidation and conjugation products whi ch are predominantly eliminated via the kidneys. The acute toxicity of DEHP is low. Following chronic exposure of laboratory animals to high er doses of DEHP, hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, carcinogenic and reproduct ive toxic effects have been observed. The relevance of these observati ons to humans is currently unknown. Therefore, further studies on the potentially harmful effects of DEHP are required, particularly in view of the increasing exposure to DEHP in the coming years.