Benzene and Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Benzene is a type of common organic compound that is used for a variety of industrial purposes. Also referred to as PhH or benzol, benzene is the simplest aromatic hydrocarbon (AH) and is highly toxic when inhaled, ingested or absorbed. The colorless liquid is highly flammable and has a sweet and distinctive smell.

Benzene exposure has been determined a causative factor in the development of a number of serious diseases. The US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has classified benzene as a human carcinogen (class 1 carcinogen). Benzene exposure most often occurs in an occupational environment. As such, the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) closely monitor employees faced with potential exposure to benzene, requiring that they are not exposed to more than one part of benzene per million parts of air.

Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood cells of the myeloid tissue (bone marrow). AML is a serious leukemic cancer that typically affects people over the age of 70. Recent studies have linked the development of AML with benzene exposure.

AML sufferers produce high levels of abnormal white blood cells that never fully develop into mature white blood cells. These myeloid blasts / myeloblasts are overproduced to such an extent that they leave little room for the production of normal blood cells. Such a deficiency of normal blood cells fosters the development of a number of adverse health issues.

AML is one of two types of myeloid leukemia, the other of which is chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Whereas the onset of AML can be sudden, CML can lay dormant for several years before presenting with symptoms of the disease.

Other Benzene Diseases

Acute myelogenous leukemia and chronic myelogenous leukemia are but two of the diseases that have been associated with benzene exposure. Two other serious benzene diseases include acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and aplastic anemia. While ALL is somewhat similar to AML and CML (in that it is a form of leukemia), aplastic anemia is the only non-cancerous disease of the four.

Aplastic anemia is a serious condition whereby bone marrow is unable to produce sufficient levels of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. Unlike the other bone marrow diseases, aplastic anemia cannot be diagnosed through blood tests.

Benzene Production

Although most industrial benzene is produced via coal tar and the petrochemical industry, the organic compound can be produced naturally as a byproduct of carbon-rich materials undergoing incomplete combustion. Benzene occurs naturally as a result of volcanic eruptions and forest fires. It also occurs naturally within crude oil from which it can be used as an "anti-knocking" additive in gasoline. Benzene can increase the octane rating of gasoline, minimizing the engine "knocking" that causes a metallic rattling sound.

Today, benzene use is strictly regulated by numerous government agencies because of the many serious side effects associated with benzene exposure. Benzene and benzene derivatives (like phenol, cyclohexane and styrene) are still found in a number of products, some of which include pesticides, drugs, dyes, lubricants, rubbers and detergents.

Benzene Disease Liabilities

It is the responsibility of employers operating facilities that deal with benzene or benzene-laden materials to ensure the safety of their employees by taking measures to minimize benzene exposure. Failure to take such measures is deemed negligent and grounds for legal action. Benzene lawsuits are designed to provide compensation for pain, suffering and legal expenses incurred as a result of an an employer's negligence. Contact a benzene personal injury lawyer specializing in benzene exposure cases to get additional information about your rights as a benzene disease victim. In addition to helping you obtain compensation for your benzene exposure-related damages, an experienced personal injury attorney can also provide effective help in various other situations. For example, most benzene injury lawyers can help you locate auto accidents specialists, as well as compassionate-yet-forceful DUI lawyers.

Areas of Legal Interest

Stevens Johnson Syndrome, Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, Guidant Pacemaker Recall, Malignant Mesothelioma, Personal Injury, Benzene Exposure, Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, Other resource, Traumatic Brain Injury