Toxicity and health effects of selected organotin compounds: a review Original paper

What was issued?

The review article on the toxicity and health effects of selected organotin compounds addresses the widespread use of organotin chemicals in various industries, particularly as fungicides, stabilizers in plastics, molluscicides, and miticides. The article covers their acute and chronic toxicity, including their impacts on human health, such as central nervous system disorders and organ damage. It highlights the specific toxic effects of alkyl and aryl organotin compounds, with the most toxic being trimethyltin and triethyltin compounds, which are highly absorbed and cause severe damage to tissues like the brain and liver. The review also discusses the regulatory status of certain organotin compounds, such as tricyclohexyltin hydroxide, which has been registered as a miticide but has raised concerns due to its toxicity and environmental persistence.

Who is affected?

The populations most affected by the toxicity of organotin compounds include workers in industries that manufacture or use these chemicals, such as in plastic production, agriculture, and pesticide application. These workers may be exposed through inhalation of fumes or dust. Additionally, the general population may be at risk, particularly from the consumption of food products or water contaminated by organotin compounds. For example, residues from agricultural use of organotins can end up in food crops or seafood, leading to potential exposure. Vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, may be especially susceptible to the harmful effects of these compounds.

Most important findings

The review discusses the differential toxicity between alkyl and aryl organotin compounds, with alkyl compounds being more toxic due to their high absorption rates in the gastrointestinal tract. Trimethyltin and triethyltin compounds are particularly harmful, causing severe neurological effects, such as status spongiosus in the brain, and liver damage. The article also emphasizes the poor absorption and lower toxicity of certain aryl tin compounds, such as triphenyltin, which are less soluble and less toxic than alkyl compounds. Despite this, some aryl compounds, such as tricyclohexyltin hydroxide, are still used in agriculture and pose health risks due to their toxicity. The study underscores the need for more research into the long-term environmental and health effects of these compounds, particularly regarding their persistence and bioaccumulation in ecosystems.

Key implications

For the food industry, the implications are significant, as the use of organotin compounds in agriculture and food packaging materials raises concerns about contamination of food products. Regulatory agencies must ensure that these chemicals are monitored and controlled to prevent harmful exposure. The article suggests that food manufacturers and pesticide applicators should be aware of the potential risks posed by these compounds and comply with existing regulations that limit their residues in food. Public health authorities also need to address the health risks associated with long-term exposure to organotin compounds, especially in vulnerable populations. There is a need for continuous evaluation of the safety limits for these compounds in food products and a greater emphasis on reducing exposure through regulatory measures and improved manufacturing practices.

Citation

Kimbrough, R. D. (1976). Toxicity and health effects of selected organotin compounds: A review. Environmental Health Perspectives, 14, 51. https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.761451