Prolonged Exposure to Bisphenol A from Single Dermal Contact Events

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Pharmacokinetics

Background:

• Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor found in human biofluids.
• Dermal absorption of BPA from thermal paper is known, but its pharmacokinetic profile is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the pharmacokinetics of dermal versus dietary Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure.
• To understand BPA absorption and elimination through the skin.

Main Methods:

• Six male participants handled simulated BPA-receipts, followed by hand-washing.
• Urine and serum BPA levels were monitored after dermal and dietary exposure.
• Extended monitoring was performed for one participant after dermal exposure.

Main Results:

• Dietary BPA cleared within 24 hours, while dermal BPA excretion was linear for at least 2 days.
• Half of participants had detectable urinary BPA 1 week after dermal exposure.
• Dermal exposure resulted in higher proportions of free BPA in urine and serum compared to dietary exposure.

Conclusions:

• Dermal absorption of BPA from thermal receipts leads to prolonged systemic exposure.
• Higher proportions of unconjugated BPA may enter circulation via dermal absorption.
• This suggests a potentially greater risk from dermal BPA exposure than previously understood.