Synonym: 1,4-dichlorobenzene
Use: insect repellent, deodorizers, mothballs, toilet “cake”
Misuse is associated with a “high” similar to solvent abuse.
Routes of abuse: inhalation, ingestion
Regular use can lead to addiction.
Adverse effects:
(1) toxic leukoencephalopathy (altered mental status, ataxia, cogwheel rigidity, dysarthria, etc)
(2) hyperpigmented, pruritic skin rash
(3) body odor of mothballs
(4) normochromic, normocytic anemia
Intoxication can be confirmed by urine testing for the metabolite 2,5-dichlorphenol.
Discontinuation once addicted may be associated with a withdrawal syndrome which may include an encephalopathy.
Since benzene is associated with myelodysplasia, late sequelae may include myelodysplasia and acute leukemia.
