Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Stoddard Solvent Toxicity
Biological Fate

Data on the toxicokinetics and pathophysiology of Stoddard solvent are limited and largely extrapolated from what is known about the fate and effects of other related petroleum products such as white spirits. Inhalation is the principal route of significant exposure for most petroleum distillates. Dermal absorption is usually limited because petroleum distillates evaporate readily; however, dermal absorption is enhanced through nonintact skin or through prolonged contact with the liquid, although no systemic effects have been noted.

The main hazard from ingestion of paraffin-type petroleum products is pulmonary aspiration. Systemic toxicity is uncommon unless large volumes are ingested and absorbed. In one study of human volunteers exposed to white spirits via inhalation, the solvent was distributed by the blood to adipose tissue, with an average elimination half-life from adipose tissue of about 48 hours. Because neurologic effects are seen after exposure to white spirits, the solvent is probably distributed to the brain as well, although this has not been documented. The sites of metabolism and excretion for Stoddard solvent have not been identified. Given the composition of Stoddard solvent and its similarity to other refined petroleum solvents, some metabolism of Stoddard solvent likely occurs in the liver, and excretion occurs partially through the respiratory tract and kidneys.

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