Inhalation toxicity studies on cigarette smoke. IV. Expression of the dose of smoke particulate material applied to the lungs of experimental animals.

Calculations of total particulate matter (TPM) dose applied to the lungs of animals are made from experimental dosimetry data. TPM dose levels achieved in a number of species following exposure to smoke are related to body weight, lung weight and alveolar surface areas of these animals. The dosage levels achieved in animals are compared with estimate of TPM dose retained by a smoker. Cigarette dosage equivalents to which animals are subjected can be calculated on the basis of these comparisons. The validity of making such extrapolations from animal dosimetry data to the human exposure situation is discussed.