Inhalation Toxicology, Third Edition

Book excerpt: The lungs provide a significant opportunity for the introduction of both therapeutic and toxic chemicals into the human body. In occupational and domestic environments, hazardous chemicals can enter the body through the lungs via gases, aerosols, and particulates from natural and anthropogenic sources. Fully updated with new research and discoveries since the last edition, Inhalation Toxicology, Third Edition presents contributions from internationally recognized scientists in the academic, commercial/industrial, and governmental sectors. A pragmatic resource for practicing professionals and students, the book comprehensively examines the relationship between the respiratory system and the toxicology of inhaled substances. Topics include: Regulatory aspects of exposure and testing Testing equipment and procedures Respiratory allergy and irritation of the respiratory tract Risk assessment Toxicology theory Toxicology modeling Toxic effects of some individual toxicants New topics in this third edition include collection and characterization of airborne particulate matter, the inhalation toxicology of asbestos fibers and nanoparticles, and the development of lung-on-a-chip technology for predicting in vivo responses. Each chapter concludes with thought-provoking questions and answers, enhancing the book’s educational utility.