[Current state of knowledge regarding prenatal effects of benzene]

Abstract

The present knowledge concerning the possible prenatal effect of benzene and/or its metabolites is presented. Animal experimental results and epidemiological studies proved to be completely insufficient. The physical, chemical and biochemical properties of this ubiquitously occurring solvent, especially the specific effects on the erythropoetic system including the damage of the cyto skeleton of the cells, require an enhanced attention in the cases of exposure of female workers in child bearing age and of pregnant women to benzene, even in cases of surely observing the maximum allowable concentration at work places.