The toxicodynamics of benzene, ethanol, and benzene plus ethanol based on the histopathological examination of selected organs in the rat.

The influence of ethanol on benzene toxicity in the course of prolonged 26-week intoxication was investigated in Wistar rats. A dose of 1/30 DL50/24h of benzene in oil solution was administered subcutaneously once daily, 5 days a week. Drinking water was replaced by a 10% water solution of ethanol ad libidum. Specimens of the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, and heart were taken for histopathological examination. Changes in the liver confirmed the hepatotoxic action of benzene and were unaffected by the simultaneous administration of ethanol. In the lungs and spleen the lymphatic system showed signs of damage which became more pronounced in joint exposure to benzene plus ethanol. The authors conclude that alcohol abuse by people professionally exposed to benzene and other lipophilic petroleum derivatives (as in the petrochemical industry) may increase the toxic effects of these substances.