Effects of occupational exposure to 1,4-dichlorobenzene on hematologic, kidney, and liver functions

Purpose: To investigate the effects of 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) on kidney, liver, and hematological functions of workers in insect repellent factories in Taiwan.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed comparing 46 exposed workers and 29 non-exposed workers. Health information was collected using questionnaires and biochemical tests. The concentration of urinary 2,5-dichlorophenol (2,5-DCP), the major metabolite of 1,4-DCB, was analyzed by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection.

Results: Urinary 2,5-DCP concentration, white blood cell (WBC) count, and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level were higher in exposed workers than in non-exposed ones (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the WBC count and ALT level were significantly correlated with the concentration of 2,5-DCP in urine (P < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen was significantly higher in on-site exposed workers (P < 0.05). Urinary 2,5-DCP concentration was significantly lower in workers who wore personal protective equipment (PPE) during work than in those who did not (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The higher urinary 2,5-DCP concentration in exposed (105.38 μg/L) than non-exposed (1.08 μg/L) workers suggests that 1,4-DCB exposure may increase the 2,5-DCP concentration in urine. Moreover, exposure to 1,4-DCB may also increase WBC count and ALT activity, and PPE may protect workers from 1,4-DCB exposure.