[Detection of external contamination of methotrexate vials in an Argentine hospital].
OBJECTIVE
To quantify external contamination of methotrexate vials and alert about occupational health hazards.


METHODS
All 50 mg and 500 mg methotrexate vials were opened and cleaned with an alcohol wet white wipe in February 2005. The vials were divided in two groups according to visual external contamination or not. The air tightness of the vials was stated.


RESULTS
9.33% methotrexate vials were contaminated under visual inspection. Two of five manufacturers presented contaminated vials. The proportion of contaminated vials in the two former manufacturers was 18.8 and 21.43%.


CONCLUSIONS
External contamination would be due to manufacture processes. Cutaneous absorption is very important because of the contamination founded. It s strongly recommended that all personal involved in cytotoxic handling take protection measures.
Iglesias
F
F
Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Pediátrico Dr. H. Notti, Mendoza, Argentina. fabianaiglesias@speedy.com.ar
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000032:analysis*; D001118:Argentina; D004340:Drug Contamination; D006801:Humans; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000032:analysis*; D010607:Pharmacy Service, Hospital / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D008727:Methotrexate