Toluene, present in many industrial and domestic products, is the main
solvent involved in solvent abuse 2nd occupational exposure. The main
problem in studying toluene-related pathologies is the fact that it i
s frequently combined with other substances. This review focuses on it
s Potential toxicity. The following subjects are discussed. pharmacolo
gic parameters; physico-chemical features; exposure; clinical trials;
experimental research; diagnosis; tolerance and dependence; acute and
chronic effects; neurotoxicity; teratogenicity; psychiatric disorders;
carcinogenicity; and treatment. It is concluded that is important mor
e research on larger population samples with a view to better definiti
on of the consequences of chronic use should be undertaken.