Percutaneous absorption of 3 organic solvents in the guinea pig (I). Effect of physical and chemical injuries to the skin.

The influence of injuries on the percutaneous absorption of 3 organic solvents (butanol, toluene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane) was studied in the guinea pig. Acute (stripping, sandpaper abrasion, needle abrasion, delipidization) and subacute (irritant and allergic contact dermatitis) injuries were induced by physical or chemical treatment of the skin. Absorption of solvents was quantified by blood analysis. Induction of acute injuries markedly altered the absorption pattern of the solvents and correlated to their water solubility. Absorption of toluene and trichloroethane was reduced and that of butanol was increased compared to normal untreated skin. Subacute injuries had a less pronounced effect. Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis reduced the absorption of toluene and trichloroethane, and no effect was seen for butanol. For hydrophobic solvents, it is concluded that in acute injuries strata other than stratum corneum hold the barrier properties.