Occupational exposure to cancer chemotherapeutic drugs: a literature review

Chemotherapeutic drugs are frequently used in cancer treatment. The mutagenic and carcinogenic potential of many antineoplastic agents has been well established. Clinical personnel may be occupationally exposed to antineoplastic agents during the preparation, administration or disposal procedures. This article provides a brief review of the current literature in medical, pharmacy and nursing journals concerning chemotherapeutic drugs. Its purpose is to increase industrial hygienists' awareness of the need for exposure control. Consensus recommendations on handling procedures published by the National Study Commission on Cytotoxic Exposure are included in the Appendix.