Benzophenone Toxicity - Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction:

Benzophenone is a white color solid compound with a pleasant floral fragrance, which can be represented by the chemical formula (C6H5)2CO. It belongs to the family of organic compounds known as ketones and is derived from benzene. Benzophenone is a versatile compound that is widely used in the production of various industrial and consumer products, such as fragrances, cosmetics, plastics, and resins. It is also used as a photoinitiator in the printing and packaging industry and as a UV (Ultraviolet) absorber in sunscreens and other personal care products.

Higher plants and fungi have been identified as sources of natural benzophenones that possess varying structures and biological properties. The Clusiaceae family alone is responsible for approximately 77 % of the known natural benzophenones. These compounds have been found to exhibit a wide array of biological activities such as antifungal, anti-HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant effects.

What Are the Applications of Benzophenone in the Medical Field?

The medical applications of benzophenone include:

• Benzophenone derivatives have shown anticancer activity by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis (a series of steps that occur within the cell leading to its death) in various cancer cells. Some studies have shown that benzophenone compounds could potentially be used in the treatment of cancer.

• Benzophenone compounds have demonstrated both antimicrobial activity and anti-inflammatory activity. It acts against various bacterial and fungal strains. Some studies have suggested that benzophenone compounds could potentially be used as an alternative to antibiotics to treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

• Some studies have suggested that benzophenone compounds could potentially be used as a treatment for inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

• Tasmar (a derivative of benzophenone with the dihydroxy group) is utilized as a medication for Parkinson's disease.

• Tricor, also known as fenofibrate, is primarily prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in patients who are at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

• Benzophenone derivatives have demonstrated neuroprotective activity by inhibiting the formation of beta-amyloid plaques (protein fragments that accumulate between nerve cells) in the brain. Some studies have suggested that benzophenone compounds could potentially be used as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

• The benzophenone compounds exhibit superior anti-inflammatory and ulcerogenic properties when compared to well-known NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Indomethacin, Naproxen, and Phenylbutazone.

• Benzophenone compounds exhibited satisfactory to moderate efficacy against both HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency) and its mutant virus. The antiviral property of this compound is beneficial for the treatment of HIV infection.

What Is Benzophenone Toxicity?

Benzophenone toxicity occurs as a result of excessive exposure to benzophenone. Benzophenone enters the human body either through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Exposure mostly occurs in occupational settings. Workers who regularly come into contact with this compound and individuals who use benzophenone-containing products frequently or in large quantities are also at higher risk of developing benzophenone toxicity.

Benzophenone can accumulate in the environment, particularly in water and soil, and can be ingested by aquatic life or humans through contaminated food or water. Environmental exposure to benzophenone has raised concerns about its potential impact on the ecosystem and human health.

What Are the Symptoms of Benzophenone Toxicity?

The symptoms of benzophenone toxicity vary from person to person based on the amount and route of exposure. The common symptoms include the following:

• Skin irritation, redness, itching, and rash may occur from topically applying products like cosmetics or sunscreen containing benzophenone.

• Eye irritation, redness, itching, and watering may occur due to accidental exposure to benzophenone.

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may develop due to excess ingestion of this compound.

• Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath may also be present.

• Allergic reactions may include skin rash, hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

• Benzophenone has weak estrogenic activity, which means it can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. This can lead to hormonal imbalance and may cause reproductive and developmental problems.

How Can Benzophenone Toxicity Be Diagnosed?

Benzophenone toxicity can be diagnosed with the help of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. A healthcare professional inquires about the patient's history of exposure to benzophenone, including the route and duration of exposure and the type of product or source of exposure. They perform physical evaluations to assess symptoms. They will also look for any signs of toxicity.

Blood or urine tests may be performed to measure the benzophenone levels in the body. Skin patch tests are done to assess allergic reactions. All these tests help to confirm the benzophenone toxicity. Doctors may advise chest X-rays to evaluate lung function and detect any abnormalities in cases of respiratory symptoms. A healthcare professional may consider other possible causes of the patient's symptoms, such as infections, allergies, or other toxic exposures, and perform additional tests to rule out these conditions if required.

What Is the Treatment for Benzophenone Toxicity?

The treatment for benzophenone toxicity includes the following:

• Supportive Treatment: In cases of mild benzophenone toxicity, supportive care may be sufficient to manage symptoms. This may include rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Hospitalization may be necessary for monitoring and supportive care in severe cases. This may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, or other interventions to manage symptoms.

• Decontamination: This may be necessary to remove benzophenone from the skin or eyes. This may involve washing with soap and water or flushing the eyes with water or saline solution. Activated charcoal therapy helps to eliminate toxic levels of this compound from the body. It works by absorbing toxic compounds and reducing their toxicity.

• Symptomatic Treatment: In cases of more severe symptoms, such as respiratory distress or allergic reactions, symptomatic treatment may be necessary. This may include medications such as bronchodilators or epinephrine to open airways or manage allergic reactions.

What Are the Ways to Prevent Benzophenone Exposure?

Benzophenone toxicity can be prevented in the following ways:

• Read product labels carefully and choose products that do not contain benzophenone or its derivatives, if possible.

• Avoid exposure to benzophenone-containing products, including cosmetics, sunscreens, plastics, and food packaging.

• Use protective measures such as gloves, goggles, or respirators to minimize exposure.

• Practice good hygiene when coming in contact with benzophenone-containing products. Affected individuals should wash their skin and eyes with soap and water or flush their eyes with saline solution for around half an hour.

• Store benzophenone products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Dispose of these products properly, according to local regulations.

Conclusion:

Benzophenone toxicity is relatively rare, but it can occur in certain circumstances. People who are more sensitive to benzophenone than others may experience adverse effects at lower levels of exposure. Individuals who have pre-existing respiratory conditions or a history of allergies may be at increased risk of benzophenone toxicity. The best way to prevent benzophenone toxicity is to minimize exposure to benzophenone-containing products and implement appropriate safety measures and good hygiene practices.