Hematological abnormalities in patients chronically exposed to benzene. An update

Milton Artur Ruiz, José Vassallo, Cármino Antonio de Souza

A study was carried out into the hematological abnormalities of peripheral blood bone marrow in patients chronically exposed to benzene. The metabolic biotransformation and the mechanisms involved in toxicity are described. Hematological data are described and discussed. Macrocytosis and lymphopenia are the earliest hematological signs of benzene toxicity. Bone marrow abnormalities are demonstrated by the complementary methods of cytology and histology. Global hypocellularity was mainly due to the granulocytic series. Mastocytosis, eosinophilia and magakariocytic abnormalities are also presented. Inflammatory abnormalities and signs of dismyelopoiese could also be observed. The importance of peripheral blood abnormalities and the need for a critical approach to this important public health problem are emphasized.