View article

Toluene is an organic solvent that is widely used by industry and is ubiquitous in our environment. As a result, exposure to solvents like toluene in work-related settings (i.e., relatively constant, low-level exposures) or through inhalant abuse (i.e., relatively intermittent, high-level exposures) is increasing for many women of reproductive age. Evidence suggests that the risk for pregnancy problems, as well as developmental delays and neurobehavioral difficulties, is higher for the children of women who have been exposed to high concentrations of organic solvents during pregnancy than for those who have not. These risks appear to be higher in cases of abuse exposure to solvents such as toluene, particularly in comparison to the risk for teratogenic outcomes with occupational solvent exposure. Despite this, the reproductive toxicology and teratology following abuse of toluene and other inhalants remains under …