International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
N-NITROSODIMETHYLAMINE
VOL.: 17 (1978) (p. 125)
CAS No.: 62-75-9
Chem. Abstr. Name: N-Methyl-N-nitrosomethanamine
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Experimental data
N-Nitrosodimethylamine is carcinogenic in all animal species tested:
mice, rats, Syrian golden, Chinese and European hamsters, guinea-pigs,
rabbits, ducks, mastomys, various fish, newts and frogs. It induces
benign and malignant tumours following its administration by various
routes, including ingestion and inhalation, in various organs in
various species. It produces tumours, mainly of the liver, kidney and
respiratory tract. It is carcinogenic following its administration
prenatally and in single doses. In several studies, dose-response
relationships were established.
5.2 Human data
No case reports or epidemiological studies were available to the
Working Group. Available information on occurrence suggests that the
general population may be exposed to low levels of
N-nitrosodimethylamine; however, no exposed group suitable for an
epidemiological investigation has yet been identified. Reports of
relatively high levels in certain pesticide formulations and of
occupational exposures that may have occurred in the manufacture and
use of rocket fuels may permit the identification of exposed
groups.
5.3 Evaluation
There is sufficient evidence of a carcinogenic effect of
N-nitrosodimethylamine in many experimental animal species.
Similarities in its metabolism by human and rodent tissues have been
demonstrated. Although no epidemiological data were available (and
efforts should be directed toward this end), N-nitrosodimethylamine
should be regarded for practical purposes as if it were carcinogenic
to humans.
Previous evaluation: Vol 1 (1972)
Subsequent evaluation: Suppl. 7 (1987) (p. 67: Group 2A)
For definition of terms, see Preamble Evaluation.
Synonyms
- N,N-Dimethylnitrosamine
- Dimethylnitrosamine
- DMN
- DMNA
- NDMA
Last updated: 27 March 1998