ABSTRACT
Halobenzene derivatives are synthetic chemicals that are stable for weeks to years after application. Commercial insecticide formulas consist of, variously, insecticides in technically pure form, dry mixtures of several insecticides, or solutions of one or more insecticides in various organic solvents, especially kerosene, toluene, or other petroleum derivatives. Since most deaths from Dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane (DDT) are complicated by the presence of other insecticides and of solvents, data obtained at autopsy are not reliable. Recovery has occurred except when DDT was ingested dissolved in an organic solvent. Toxaphene consists of chlorinated terpenes, with chlorinated camphene predominating. It is stable for 1–6 months after application and is fat-soluble and water-insoluble. Toxaphene is available for insecticidal use in the form of wettable powders, dusts, emulsion concentrates, and concentrated solutions in oil. If the liver has previously been damaged the toxicity of the polycyclic halogenated insecticides is greatly increased.
