Re: Absorption of Beryllium Salts

[Wendell Rahorst <wrahorst@slate.Mines.EDU>]

Reif, Ronald H. wrote:

> Greetings-
>
> Does anyone know if beryllium salts are readily absorbed/transported
> through intact and healthy human skin?  If so, please provide the
> reference.
>
> Thanks,
> Ron Reif
> rreif@doeal.gov
> 505-845-5094

Ron,

Casarett & Doull's Toxicology - The Basic Science of Poisons  ( Fifth
Edition-1996 ) p699 states:

"Contact dermatitis is the commonest beryllium-related toxic effect.
Exposure to soluble beryllium compounds may result in papulovesicular
lesions on the skin.... If contact is made with an insoluble
beryllium compound, a chronic granulomatous lesion develops...  passive
transfer with lymphoid cells has been accomplished in guinea pigs. "

Beryllium has been identified as a carcinogen.  The potential exists for

these skin lesions to develop in severity and lead to skin cancer.

Hope this helps.  If you need further advice please contact me
personally.

Wendell Rahorst
wrahorst@mines.edu
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