Effects of work environment contaminated with benzene, toluene and xylene on acid phosphatase activity in lymphocytes

The activity of acid phosphatase (AP) in peripheral blood lymphocytes was determined by means of histochemical method in 108 workers having occupational contact with organic solvents containing benzene and its homologues. Benzene, toluene and xylene concentrations in the air at work stands were equal to 0-370, 0-580 and 0-560 mg/eu.m., respectively. A progressing reduction of numbers of lymphocytes having AP-positive intact lysosomes was stated in workers with a working time equal 31-122 months. This phenomenon was more expressed in workers exposed to greater concentrations of benzene and its homologues. The damage to the lysosomal apparatus of lymphocytes reflected by an increased permeability of lysosomal membranes can be regarded as one of the earliest symptoms of toxic effects of benzene, toluene and xylene on cells of the lymphocytic series.