International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations
ERIONITE
VOL.: 42 (1987) (p. 225)
5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation
5.1 Exposure data
Erionite occurs as a fibrous component of some zeolite deposits
in various areas of the world. Erionite fibres have also been
identified as a component of soil and building materials in these
areas. The most important exposures to date have been nonoccupational
and occur as a result of resuspension of erionite-containing dusts.
Occupational exposures occur during mining, milling and processing of
some zeolites as well as during agricultural work in areas in which
soils are contaminated with erionite.
5.2 Experimental data
Erionite from various natural sources was tested for
carcinogenicity in rats by inhalation and by intrapleural
administration, and in mice by intraperitoneal injection, producing
high incidences of mesotheliomas by all routes of administration.
No data were available to evaluate the reproductive or prenatal
toxicity of erionite in experimental animals.
Erionite induced unscheduled DNA synthesis and morphological
transformation in cultured mammalian cells.
5.3 Human data
Descriptive studies have demonstrated very high mortality from
malignant mesothelioma, mainly of the pleura, in three Turkish
villages where there was contamination from erionite and where
exposure was from birth. Erionite fibres were identified in lung
tissue samples in cases of pleural mesothelioma; ferruginous bodies
were found in a much higher proportion of inhabitants in contaminated
villages than in those of two control villages.
5.4 Evaluation
There is sufficient evidence for the carcinogenicity of erionite
to experimental animals.
There is sufficient evidence for the carcinogenicity of erionite
to humans.
For definition of the italicized terms, see Preamble Evaluation.
Subsequent evaluation: Suppl. 7 (1987)
Last updated: 23 April 1998