International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
BENZO(b)FLUORANTHENE
VOL.: 3 (1973) (p. 69)
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Animal carcinogenicity data
Benzo(b)fluoranthene has produced skin tumours in mice following repeated skin
paintings. The lowest carcinogenic dose for the mouse skin was at
least ten times higher than that of benzo(a)pyrene. Benzo(b)fluoranthene is also an
initiator of skin carcinogenesis in mice and produces local sarcomas
after s.c. injections. It has not been tested by other routes in the
mouse or in other species.
5.2 Human carcinogenicity data
No case reports or epidemiological studies on the significance of
benzo(b)fluoranthene exposure to man are available. However, coal-tar and other
materials which are known to be carcinogenic to man may contain benzo(b)fluoranthene.
The substance has also been detected in other environmental
situations. The possible contribution of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons from some environmental sources to the overall
carcinogenic risk to man is discussed in the General Remarks.
Subsequent evaluations: Vol. 32 (1983); Suppl. 7 (1987) (p. 58: Group 2B)
For definition of Groups, see Preamble Evaluation.
Last updated: 16 March 1998