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Epidemiology, toxicokinetics, and health effects of methyltert-butyl ether (MTBE)

  • Toxicology Reviews
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Abstract

This paper reviews the published information assessing the kinetics and potential for adverse health effects related to exposure to the fuel oxygenate, methyltert-butyl ether (MTBE). Data were obtained from previously published reports, using human data where possible. If human data were not available, animal studies were cited. The kinetic profile of MTBE in humans is similar for ingestion and inhalation. The concentrations of MTBE to which the general public is expected to be exposed are orders of magnitude below concentrations that have caused adverse health effects in animals. Controlled human studies have not replicated early epidemiology studies that suggested, but did not confirm, a possible association between MTBE exposure and nonspecific health complaints.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Center, Denver, CO

    Scott Phillips

  2. Department of Surgery, Division of Emergency Medicine, Toxicology Section, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center, Denver, CO

    Robert B. Palmer

  3. Hadassah-Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel

    Aaron Brody

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Correspondence to Scott Phillips.

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Supported by an unrestricted grant from the American Council on Science and Health.

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Phillips, S., Palmer, R.B. & Brody, A. Epidemiology, toxicokinetics, and health effects of methyltert-butyl ether (MTBE). J. Med. Toxicol. 4, 115–126 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03160966

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