Ultrafine particles (UFP) and health effects. Dangerous. Like no other PM? Review and analysis

Abstract

The goal of the current review is to present and analyze the known information proposed and
 discussed the last few years about UFP and their possible health effects. It includes
 references from 1992 to 2008. It also includes references from some fundamental studies in
 the 1970's and 1980's. The review and analysis of the health hazards induced by ultrafine
 particle exposure focuses on the; classification and characteristics of suspended particulate
 matter (PM), features and properties of PM and, specifically, ultrafine particles (UFP), the
 UFP movement and translocation from exposure sources in the environment to the human
 body and the ways of absorption and deposition within the human anatomy. Also, an
 extensive review of epidemiological, clinical and toxicology studies concerning possible health
 effects of UFP, is included. Finally, the most recent studies suggesting extrapulmonary effects
 and, especially, on the brain and central nervous system. Results have shown that there is
 significant analogy between UFP exposure and related adverse health effect risk in human
 beings. Cardiovascular and pulmonary systems seem to be the main targets of this exposure.
 New evidence shows accumulation of UFP in regions of the cerebellum, olfactory bulb and
 other areas of the central nervous system.