The toxicological and dermatological effects of occupational exposure to alkyd resins during the production and processing of plastics are discussed. Physical and chemical properties are described. Alkyd resins form a number of saturated polyesters. The two compounds involved in industrial health hazards, phthalic-acid-anhydride (85449) and maleic-acid-anhydride (108316) are discussed. Studies in experimental toxicology are reviewed. Rats, rabbits, and cats exposed to various concentrations of phthalic-acid-anhydride have developed emphysema, anorexia, vomiting, drowsiness, and deaths. Irritation of the respiratory tract appears to be reversible. In industrial situations, workers exposed to phthalic-acid-anhydride develop irritations of the eyes, mucosa of the nose, larynx, trachea and bronchi, anorexia, erythema, eczema, burns, and urticaria. Similar results have been observed with workers exposed to maleic-acid-anhydride. Contact eczema and even burns have been associated with these compounds especially on warm skin. The role of impurities in the development of the toxic symptoms is discussed. Toxic effects of naphthalene (91203) are reviewed. Preventive measures are suggested.
