[Utility of the Filter Extraction Method for Detecting Anticancer Drug Contamination in Air].

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Occupational Health
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Anticancer drugs, or antineoplastic agents, can pose risks through airborne exposure in healthcare settings.
• Monitoring environmental contamination is crucial for protecting healthcare workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a continuous filter extraction method for detecting airborne anticancer drug contamination.
• To measure cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil levels in an outpatient chemotherapy room.

Main Methods:

• A filter extraction method was employed, placing filters in the exhaust ducts of an air conditioner.
• Filters were installed in three areas of an outpatient chemotherapy room for approximately five months.
• Collected filters were analyzed for the presence of cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil.

Main Results:

• Cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil were detected in all three surveyed areas.
• The concentrations and ratios of the detected drugs varied across the different locations.
• Variations may be attributed to drug preparation, administration, and patient excretion processes.

Conclusions:

• The filter extraction method is a viable and continuous technique for monitoring airborne anticancer drug contamination.
• This method can be used to assess occupational exposure of healthcare workers to inhaled antineoplastic drugs.
• The filter extraction method offers a novel approach to environmental monitoring in healthcare facilities.