描述
Ethyl benzene, also known as ethylbenzol or alpha-methyltoluene, belongs to benzene and substituted derivatives class of compounds. Those are aromatic compounds containing one monocyclic ring system consisting of benzene. Ethyl benzene can be found in black walnut and safflower, which makes ethyl benzene a potential biomarker for the consumption of these food products. Ethyl benzene can be found primarily in blood and feces. Ethyl benzene exists in all eukaryotes, ranging from yeast to humans. Ethyl benzene is formally rated as possibly a carcinogenic (IARC 2B) potentially toxic compound. Ethyl benzene is an organic compound with the formula C6H5CH2CH3. It is a highly flammable, colorless liquid with an odor similar to that of gasoline. This monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbon is important in the petrochemical industry as an intermediate in the production of styrene, the precursor to polystyrene, a common plastic material. In 2012, more than 99% of ethylbenzene produced was consumed in the production of styrene. Ethyl benzene is also used to make other chemicals, in fuel, and as a solvent in inks, rubber adhesives, varnishes, and paints. Ethyl benzene exposure can be determined by testing for the breakdown products in urine . Following oral exposure, a gastric lavage is recommended. Protect airway by placement in Trendelenburg and left lateral decubitus position or by endotracheal intubation. Control any seizures first. Following inhalation, move patient to fresh air. Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer oxygen and assist ventilation as required. Following eye exposure, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature water for at least 15 minutes. In case of dermal exposure, remove contaminated clothing and wash exposed area thoroughly with soap and water. Treat dermal irritation or burns with standard topical therapy. Patients developing dermal hypersensitivity reactions may require treatment with systemic or topical corticosteroids or antihistamines. Some chemicals can produce systemic poisoning by absorption through intact skin. Carefully observe patients with dermal exposure for the development of any systemic signs or symptoms and administer symptomatic treatment as necessary (T36) (T3DB).