A contribution to the question of the possible hepatocarcinogenic effects of lindane.

The possible hepatocarcinogenic effect of lindane was studied in an 80-week study using 500 NMRI mice (strain Chbi : NMRI (SPF)). After giving doses of 12.5, 25 and 50 ppm in the food no compound-induced liver tumours were observed. Neither the occurrence of lymphatic leukemia, malignant haemangioendotheliomas, reticulum cell neoplasms nor liver cell adenomas could be related to the administration of the compound. In view of the actual residue level of lindane the probability of carcinogenic risk to man would appear remote.