Benzene Exposure Profile
This test is used to monitor exposure
to benzene.
Benzene toxicity through chronic exposure
is characterized by damage to the hematopoietic system. Acute poisonings produce
CNS depressant effects. In addition, benzene is classified by the EPA as a
group A carcinogen. Prior to being classified as a potential carcinogen, benzene
was used as a fuel additive. Consequently, only traces of benzene can be found
in fuel (<1.5%). Blood is the preferred specimen for measuring an acute
or recent exposure.