[Toxicity and carcinogenicity of nickel and its compounds. A review of the current status (author's transl)]

Abstract

Since half a century the toxicity and carcinogenicity of nickel and its compounds is in discussion. Problems coming therefrom are of high relevance concerning occupational medicine. According to the new national and international literature the present findings are described and discussed. Starting from occurrence, refining and occupational hazards, in the first part, toxicologic mechanisms and characteristic symptoms are represented in detail. Inorganic and organic Ni-compounds are handled separately. In the second part of this study we are giving opinion to the questions of carcinogenicity. Experiences to occupationally nickel-exposed workers as well as a review about the topical findings in animal experiments are described. Of importance there are questions referring to the different carcinogenic potential of nickel and its compounds and the influence to techniques of application. Current results to the mechanism of carcinogenesis, which can be derived from animal experiments, are shown. The carcinogenicity for nickel and some especial water insoluble Ni-compounds in human beings must be seen as a fact. Malignoms in the respiratory tract are regarded by workers breathing dust/aerosols of metallic nickel, nickel subsulfide, Ni-oxide and in electrolysis. By critical review of the present literature a cancerogenicity of nickel-carbonyl has to be assumed too. According to this review measures in the field of occupational hygiene and medicine are required. Illness caused by nickel or its compounds should be included to the valid list of occupational diseases in the FRG.