Specific Chemical Hazards
Xylene
Exposure to xylene can occur via inhalation, ingestion, eye or skin contact.
This chart shows zylene exposure routes, symptoms, and target organs.
It is primarily metabolized in the liver by oxidation of a methyl group and conjugation with glycine to yield methyl hippuric acid, which is excreted in the urine. Smaller amounts are eliminated unchanged in the exhaled air.
- Acute (short-term) inhalation exposure to mixed xylenes in humans results in irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, gastrointestinal effects, and neurological effects.
- Chronic (long-term) inhalation exposure of humans to mixed xylenes results primarily in central nervous system (CNS) effects, such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, tremors, and lack of coordination; respiratory, cardiovascular, and kidney effects have also been reported.
For more information on Xylene, visit the CDC Toxic Substance Portal .
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-3. Which of the following symptoms are indicative of short-term inhalation exposure to xylene?
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