Hexachlorophene

Abstract

Hexachlorophene (HCP) is a chlorinated bisphenol antiseptic used in drug and cosmetic products. It is effective against gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus but offers much less protection for gram-negative bacteria. HCP is associated with toxic effects, including death, following absorption through the skin of premature babies or damaged skin. The primary mechanism of toxicity following skin absorption is intramyelinic edema. Consequently, HCP use in hospitals and other institutions is restricted, and over-the-counter drug products and cosmetics have a US Food and Drug Administration–mandated limit of 0.1% HCP. Additionally, human exposure via ingestion and inhalation is attributed to agricultural uses (e.g., fungicide) of HCP. In humans, plasma HCP concentration is not well correlated with clinical effects. HCP is primarily released into the environment via waste streams, adsorbs strongly to soil, and is generally not expected to leach to groundwater. However, HCP is very toxic to aquatic organisms. An acceptable human daily intake of 0.0012mgkg−1day−1 has been established, and state drinking water guideline ranges of 2–6μgL−1 have been reported.