Acrylonitrile respiratory toxicity

Upper respiratory toxicants include hydrogen halides (hydrogen chloride, hydrogen bromide), oxides (nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, sodium oxide), and hydroxides (ammonium hydroxide, sodium dusts, and potassium hydroxides). Lower respiratory toxicants include monomers (such as acrylonitrile), halides (fluorine, chlorine, bromine), and other miscellaneous... 

Studies in animals indicate that acrylonitrile can produce teratogenic effects at doses that have little maternal toxicity, suggesting that pregnant women may also be susceptible. It also seems likely that individuals in poor health or with respiratory problems might be particularly susceptible to acrylonitrile, but there are no data on this point. 

Acrylonitrile closely resembles hydrocyanic acid in its toxic action. By inhibiting the respiratory enzymes of tissue, it renders the tissue cells incapable of oxygen absorption. Poisoning is acute there is little evidence of cumulative action on repeated exposure. Exposure to low concentration is followed by flushing of the face and increased salivation further exposure results in irritation of the eyes and nose, photophobia, deepened respiration. If exposure continues, shallow respiration. 

Ingestion and absorption of acrylonitrile through the skin exhibited similar toxic symptoms headache, lightheadedness, sneezing, weakness, nausea, and vomiting. In humans, the symptoms were nonspecific but related to the central nervous system, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Severe intoxication can cause loss of consciousness, convulsions, respiratory arrest, and death (Buchter and Peter 1984). 

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