Pentachlorophenol (PCP)

Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbon that is toxic and carcinogenic. It is used to preserve wood and liver and as a herbicide. The production of PCP produces dioxins, which are also carcinogenic.

In Germany, however, these agents have been banned since 1987.

There is a danger of poisoning especially in closed rooms. Ingestion occurs mainly by inhalation, but can also be absorbed through the skin.

Symptoms of PCP exposure are:

  • Eye burning
  • Bronchial asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • Cephalgia (headache)
  • Hepatopathies (liver damage)
  • Fatigue
  • Nephropathies (kidney damage)
  • Insomnia (sleep disorders)

The procedure

Material needed

  • Blood serum
  • Morning urine

Preparation of the patient

  • Not necessary

Disruptive factors

  • Not known

Standard values

Normal value – blood serum < 20 μg/l
Normal value – morning urine <5 μg/l

Indications

  • Suspicion of PCP contamination

Interpretation

Interpretation of lowered values

  • Not relevant to disease

Interpretation of elevated values

  • PCP load