Toxicology and Chemical Hazards Flashcards

Which toxicokinetic process describes the movement of a chemical from the bloodstream into tissues and organs?

Answer: Distribution

Distribution is the process by which a chemical moves from systemic circulation into tissues and organs throughout the body.

A worker is exposed to a chemical with a high octanol-water partition coefficient (Kow). This suggests the chemical is likely to:

Answer: Bioaccumulate in adipose tissue

A high Kow indicates strong lipophilicity, meaning the chemical will preferentially partition into fat tissue and bioaccumulate.

The Haber's Rule states that toxic effect is proportional to:

Answer: The concentration multiplied by duration of exposure

Haber's Rule (C × t = k) states that the toxic effect is the product of concentration and time of exposure.

Which phase of biotransformation typically involves conjugation reactions that increase water solubility for excretion?

Answer: Phase II

Phase II biotransformation involves conjugation reactions (glucuronidation, sulfation, etc.) that add polar groups to increase water solubility.

A chemical that causes damage specifically to the proximal convoluted tubule of the kidney is classified as a:

Answer: Nephrotoxin

Nephrotoxins cause damage to kidney structures, including specific regions like the proximal convoluted tubule.

In risk assessment, the term 'bioavailability' refers to:

Answer: The fraction of an administered dose that reaches systemic circulation

Bioavailability is the fraction of an administered dose that reaches the systemic circulation in an unchanged, active form.

Which of the following is an example of a local toxic effect?

Answer: Hydrofluoric acid burns at the skin contact site

A local toxic effect occurs at the site of first contact, such as hydrofluoric acid causing burns at the skin contact point.