Systemic toxicity refers to the harmful effects that occur throughout the body, rather than just at the site of initial contact, after exposure to a toxic substance. In the context of skin exposures, systemic toxicity is a function of two key factors: how well the substance penetrates the skin and how toxic the substance is.
Understanding Systemic Toxicity
When a chemical or substance comes into contact with the skin, it may not only cause local irritation, but can also enter the bloodstream. This is where the substance becomes systemic and can affect other organs and systems in the body. The severity of systemic toxicity depends on the substance's ability to cross the skin barrier and its inherent toxic potency.
Key Factors Contributing to Systemic Toxicity from Skin Exposures
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Skin Penetration | The ability of a chemical to pass through the layers of the skin and enter the bloodstream. Factors such as molecular size, and chemical properties affect this. |
| Toxic Potency | The inherent ability of a chemical to cause harm once it enters the body. Some substances are harmful in extremely small amounts, while others require larger doses to cause significant toxicity. |
The reference states, "Systemic toxicity from skin exposures is the combined result of two chemical characteristics – penetration of the chemical through the skin and toxic potency of the chemical."
Range of Variability
It’s important to note that the penetrability and toxic potency of industrial chemicals can vary significantly. The range spans several orders of magnitude, highlighting the diverse nature of the hazard that each chemical poses.
Example of Systemic Toxicity
For example, if a worker in a chemical plant accidentally spills a highly toxic substance that readily penetrates the skin, the effects wouldn't be limited to the area of the spill. The substance could spread through the bloodstream, causing damage to internal organs and potentially resulting in long-term health problems.
How to Minimize Systemic Toxicity from Skin Exposures
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, protective clothing, and other forms of PPE create a barrier to prevent harmful substances from coming into contact with the skin.
- Ensure proper ventilation: In chemical environments, good ventilation reduces exposure to airborne chemicals that could settle on the skin.
- Follow safe handling procedures: Adhering to safety protocols minimizes accidental spills and exposures.
- Training and education: Educating workers about the specific hazards of chemicals used can ensure correct handling procedures.
Conclusion
Systemic toxicity from skin exposure results from a chemical's ability to penetrate the skin and its inherent toxic potency. The interplay of these two factors can result in widely varied health outcomes following skin contact with a chemical.
