CSM-Human detoxification of perfluorinated compounds.

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Human detoxification of perfluorinated compounds.

Genuis SJ, Birkholz D, Ralitsch M, Thibault N.

Public Health. 2010

Jul;124(7):367- 75. Epub 2010 Jun 19.

University of Alberta, Canada. sgenuisualberta (DOT) ca

Abstract

There has been no proven method thus far to accelerate

the clearance of potentially toxic perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) in humans.

PFCs are a family of commonly used synthetic compounds with many applications,

including repelling oil and stains on furniture, clothing, carpets and food

packaging, as well as in the manufacturing of polytetrafluoroethy lene - a

non-stick surfacing often used in cookware (e.g. Teflon®). Some PFCs remain

persistent within the environment due to their inherent chemical stability, and

are very slowly eliminated from the human body due, in part, to enterohepatic

recirculation. Exposure to PFCs is widespread and some subpopulations, living in

proximity to or working in fluorochemical manufacturing plants, are highly

contaminated. PFC bioaccumulation has become an increasing public health concern

as emerging evidence suggests reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity and

hepatotoxicity, and some PFCs are considered to be likely human carcinogens. A

case history is presented where an individual with high concentrations of PFCs

in serum provided: (1) sweat samples after use of a sauna; and (2) stool samples

before and after oral administration of each of two bile acid sequestrants -

cholestyramine (CSM) and saponin compounds (SPCs). Stool samples before and

after use of a cation-exchange zeolite compound were also examined. PFCs found

in serum were not detected in substantial quantities in sweat or in stool prior

to treatment. Minimal amounts of perfluorooctanoic acid, but no other PFCs, were

detected in stool after SPC use; minimal amounts of perfluorooctanesulf onate,

but no other PFCs, were detected in stool after zeolite use. All PFC congeners

found in serum were detected in stool after CSM use. Serum levels of all PFCs

subsequently declined after regular use of CSM. Further study is required but

this report suggests that CSM therapy may facilitate gastrointestinal

elimination of some PFCs from the human body.

PMID: 20621793 [PubMed - in process]