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Exposure to acetone. Uptake and elimination in man
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|June 1, 1981
Summary
Acetone uptake and elimination were studied in male subjects. Acetone was absorbed into the blood, with elimination primarily through the lungs, not urine.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Acetone exposure is common in industrial settings.
- Understanding acetone pharmacokinetics is crucial for assessing health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify acetone uptake and elimination in humans.
- To investigate the influence of rest and exercise on acetone kinetics.
- To determine routes of acetone excretion.
Main Methods:
- Eight male subjects exposed to acetone vapor at two concentrations (1,300 mg/m³ and 700 mg/m³).
- Exposure involved rest and graded exercise on a bicycle ergometer.
- Acetone concentrations measured in alveolar air, blood, and urine.
Main Results:
- Total acetone uptake ranged from 0.6–1.2 g, with relative uptake around 45%.
- Alveolar air acetone concentration was 30–40% of inspired air, unaffected by workload.
- Blood acetone levels increased continuously; elimination half-times were ~4h (alveolar air), ~6h (venous blood), and ~4h (arterial blood).
- Pulmonary elimination accounted for ~20% of uptake; urinary excretion was minimal (~1%).
Conclusions:
- Human subjects absorb a significant portion of inhaled acetone.
- Acetone elimination occurs primarily via the lungs, with minimal urinary excretion.
- Exercise does not significantly alter acetone's respiratory kinetics.