Possible methods of carcinogenicity testing for substances used at the place of work

Even in the early stages of the development of new chemical substances the chemist should know as much as possible about their eventual carcinogenic properties. In most cases extensive carcinogenicity testing cannot be performed. In that situation, a sensitive and relatively inexpensive approach to carcinogen testing is proposed. Subcutaneous, intratracheal, or intraperitoneal applications to rodents give reliable results even with regard to the necessary quantification of potency. In such tests the unknown substances (unknown with regard to carcinogenicity) can be handled more safely than in other tests. Examples of the implementation of the methods are given and comparisons are made with classical methods of testing.