[Evaluation of the toxicity of particle-bound dioxins and furans in the environment of a metal plant].

During the last years increased PCDD/PCDF-levels were found in soil, dust and vegetables in a living area close to a metal reclamation plant in Southern Germany. 450 volunteers participated in a clinical and laboratory trial. In a randomised group of 22 persons PCDD/PCDF concentrations have been investigated from blood samples. The range of PCDD/PCDF between 16-80 (mean 31) did not vary substantially from values in non-exposed national samples. Results of clinical history and clinical and laboratory testing did not correlate with emission, time of exposure or PCDD/PCDF concentrations of blood samples. It is suggested that PCDD/PCDF of pyrolytic origin may be incorporated to a lesser extent in humans.