Association between renal function tests and pentachlorophenol exposure.

Data are presented and renal function tests and Pcp measurements on consecutive blood and urine samples collected from 18 workers at a wood treatment plant before, during, and after a 20-day vacation. Pcp concentrations in blood averaging 5.1 ppm before vacation fell to 2.2 ppm during vacation but with a temporary rise early in this nonexposure period, suggesting a body tissues store of Pcp which was mobilized in response to a negative Pcp balance. Urine Pcp concentrations showed similar but less marked variations. Creatinine clearance and phosphorus reabsorption values were depressed before vacation but showed significant improvement during vacation, suggesting that Pcp exposure reduced both glomerular filtration rate and tubular function, with recovery following a nonexposure period.