Hidden hazards: microplastics in intravenous admixtures and their path into the body

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) have been detected in all environmental spheres, from the Arctic to the deepest ocean trenches, and have also infiltrated the internal organs of the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and other exposure routes. While various commercial products have been identified as origin of MPs, leading to bans and awareness campaigns, their presence in medical treatments remains underexplored. This study investigates MPs in intravenous (IV) admixtures, which are stored in plastic containers before administration. The hypothesis suggests that prolonged storage may degrade container walls, leading to the release of MPs into the solutions. Analysis of 11 IV admixtures with the help of a stereomicroscope revealed a significant presence of fibre and fragment particles, with 99% of detected MPs measuring less than 100 µm. Polymers identified through a micro FTIR included polypropylene-polyethylene (PP-PE) copolymer, polypropylene (PP) homopolymer, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and polyurethane (PU). The abundance of MPs increased with storage duration, with older solutions exhibiting more surface roughness, indicating progressive degradation of plastic materials over time. These findings highlight an overlooked route of MP exposure, directly introducing these particles into the human body during medical treatments. Given the increasing use of IV therapies worldwide, further research is essential to assess the health risks posed by MPs in medical solutions. Regulatory measures should be considered to minimize contamination and ensure patient safety.