An evaluation of possible effects on health following exposure to ethylene oxide

A study was made of the effects of ethylene oxide (ETO) on the health of sterilizer workers and other personnel exposed while using ETO for sterilization of disposable medical devices. The only significant findings were obtained by chromosomal analysis of cultured lymphocytes harvested from the workers. There were significant differences in the numbers and types of chromosomal aberrations between the exposed workers and the nonexposed controls. Quadriradial and triradial chromosomal forms, which are rarely found in nonexposed populations, were increased in exposed workers. Increased numbers of sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) were found in the cultured lymphocytes of some, but not all, exposed persons during the 2 yr of study. Thirteen workers were removed from exposure in 1979 because of increased numbers of aberrant cells. Follow-up over 4 yr has not shown a significant improvement, except for a moderate reduction in SCE. Recommendations are given for a surveillance of persons working with or exposed to ethylene oxide.