Adducts to Macromolecules in the Biological Monitoring of Workers Exposed to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous contaminants. Human exposure occurs through diet, smoking, and polluted air. In some groups of workers exposed to PAHs, epidemiological studies have revealed an increased mortality risk for neoplasms. This paper reviews the principal methods that have been developed recently for the detection of PAH adducts to white blood cell DNA and blood proteins (hemoglobin, albumin) and summarizes observations made on occupationally exposed subjects.

Key Words:

• polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
• benzo[a]pyrene
• DNA adducts
• blood protein adducts
• human biomonitoring
• occupational exposure