International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
CHRYSENE
VOL.: 3 (1973) (p. 159)
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Animal carcinogenicity data
Chrysene has produced skin tumours in mice following repeated
paintings in the only study in which a concentration as high as 1% in
acetone was used. It is also an initiator of skin carcinogenesis in
mice, whereas a single painting with 1 mg chrysene with no further
treatment did not induce tumours.
High doses (2-20 mg) given by s.c. injection to mice produced a low
incidence of tumours with a long induction time.
It has not been adequately tested by other routes or in other species.
5.2 Human carcinogenicity data
No case reports or epidemiological studies on the significance of
chrysene exposure to man are available. However, coal-tar and other
materials which are known to be carcinogenic to man may contain
chrysene. 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. 60: Group 3)
For definition of Groups, see Preamble Evaluation.
Last updated: 16 March 1998