Epidemiology, toxicokinetics, and health effects of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE).
This paper reviews the published information assessing the kinetics and potential for adverse health effects related to exposure to the fuel oxygenate, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). Data were obtained from previously published reports, using human data where possible. If human data were not available, animal studies were cited. The kinetic profile of MTBE in humans is similar for ingestion and inhalation. The concentrations of MTBE to which the general public is expected to be exposed are orders of magnitude below concentrations that have caused adverse health effects in animals. Controlled human studies have not replicated early epidemiology studies that suggested, but did not confirm, a possible association between MTBE exposure and nonspecific health complaints.
Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, CO, USA. scott.phillips@uchsc.edu
Scott
S
Phillips
Robert B
RB
Palmer
Aaron
A
Brody
D000393:Air Pollutants / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000633:toxicity*; D000818:Animals; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D019570:Inhalation Exposure; D007928:Lethal Dose 50; D008738:Methyl Ethers / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000633:toxicity*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000633:toxicity*
D000393:Air Pollutants; D008738:Methyl Ethers; D014874:Water Pollutants, Chemical; C043243:methyl tert-butyl ether