[Fluorocarbons in question].

Abstract

In this study, two fluorocarbons (FC): difluorodichloromethane (FC 12) and monofluorodichlormethane (FC 11) are mainly concerned. These products are extensively used and we attempt to demonstrate their absence of acute, subacute and chronic toxicity as well as teratogenic action. After inhalation, the FC rapidly diffuse into the blood, cerebrospinal fluid and all the "milieu interieur" where a balanced condition is quickly established. Only a few reactions, all reversible, concerning respiration circulation, nervous system and metabolisms are observed when the concentrations in the air is greater than 20% for FC 12 and greater 5% for FC 11. The eliminations of these gase from the body is completed 20-50 mn after fresh air is reinhaled. The problem of the "sudden sniffing Death" is finally taken into consideration. They probably are due to the stopping of the heart by ventricular fibrillation, a consequence of a direct and proper action of the FC on the heart or a sensibilisation of the heart to adrenaline. However this sensibilisation necessitates the presence of more than 40 microgram of FC per ml of blood, concentration never obtained in the most intensive use of aerosols.