Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) has suddenly become the focal point of controversy over the relationship of chemical waste to human health. Specific concern exists regarding its potential association with human malignancy. Subcellular, cellular, and whole-animal experiments suggest that TCDD exerts much of its activity by inducing enzymes that protect the intact organism from the assault of environmental contamination. TCDD is a potent inducer of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase, although wide variations between species do exist. Conventional tests for mutagenicity have produced conflicting results. Animal experiments have shown the development of tumors following chronic low level ingestion of TCDD. The human evidence regarding the potential carcinogenicity of TCDD comes from occupational, military and environmental exposures. Several studies have come out of Sweden suggesting an association between sarcoma and exposure to herbicides. Although there is little solid evidence that 2,3,7,8-TCDD produces substantial chronic disability or premature death in man, a significant body of experimental evidence for its carcinogenicity makes it likely that a small number of human malignancies may be due to its action. Since 2,3,7,8-TCDD is an unwanted contaminant it could be eliminated with little measurable consequence.