ABSTRACT
Carbon tetrachloride is metabolized to a trichloromethyl free radical which then forms chloroform, hexachloroethane, carbon monoxide, trichloromethanol, and eventually forms phosgene and carbon dioxide. Tetrachloroethane is used as a solvent in industry and occurs as a contaminant in other chlorinated hydrocarbons. It is occasionally present in household cleaners. Initially tetrachloroethane causes irritation of the eyes and nose, followed by headache and nausea. Trichloroethylene is used as an industrial solvent; in typewriter correction fluids; and in household cleaners for walls, clothing, and rugs. The most striking effect of trichloroethylene is depression of the central nervous system. Dichloromethane is used as an ingredient in paint removers and as an industrial solvent. It has been used as an anesthetic agent, but fatalities occurred. Emergency care personnel may need to wear protective equipment. Remove the victim’s contaminated clothing and wash exposed skin with soap and water.
