An investigation published in the magazine Liver International to Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California I revealed it Exposure to tetrachlorethylene (PCE), a chemical used in dry cleaning and industrial productsis associated with a significantly three-fold increased risk of cirrhosis in American adults. The analysis, which was conducted on samples collected between 2017 and 2020, found that about 7% of the adults included in the study had detectable levels of this compound in their blood, according to the results officially announced on November 11, 2025.
The research used data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) To evaluate the relationship between the presence of tetrachlorethylene and liver damage. Study leaders noted a dose-response relationship, that is, a higher concentration of a chemical reflects a greater likelihood of liver damage. The original report suggests that this finding could expand understanding of the origin of some liver diseases not linked to traditional factors such as alcohol consumption.
he Tetrachlorethylene It has been subject to review before US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) This is due to its widespread use in industrial and commercial sectors, mainly in dry cleaning. Its classification as a probable carcinogen and the identification of its adverse health effects have led to the imposition of new regulatory restrictions and the promotion of greater controls in the scope of its application.
he Tetrachlorethylene (PCE) It is a colorless liquid mainly used in dry cleaning of clothes, degreasing, industrial adhesives, stain removers and metal polishes. Environmental Protection Agency. The compound can be released into the environment through treated clothing, access to drinking water due to improper handling, or leached into soil or aquifers during disposal.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer sets Personal consumption expenditures It is in the category of probable carcinogens, associated with bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and, due to recent evidence, liver risks. Scientific material for Keck School of Medicine Its presence is confirmed in the general population, outside of work environments, due to repeated exposure in residential and commercial settings.
The analysis included 1,614 blood samples collected by the program from adults over the age of 20 Nahanis Between 2017 and 2020. About 7% of participants had detectable levels of… Tetrachlorethylene In the blood, within this group, those who did not record exposure were significantly three times more likely to develop liver cirrhosis than those who did not record exposure, according to data provided by the researchers. Keck School of Medicine.
The researchers found that for every increase of one nanogram per milliliter of… Personal consumption expenditures In the blood, the probability of developing related liver cirrhosis was increased by five. The relationship persisted when factors such as age, gender, race, education, alcohol consumption and liver fat accumulation were taken into account, supporting the independence of the association.
Cirrhosis is associated with the buildup of scar tissue in the liver, a process that can lead to cirrhosis, cancer, or liver failure. a job Keck School of Medicine He confirms that the disease usually progresses without clear symptoms to very advanced stages.
Official publication of the study includes the statement of the lead author, Brian B. Leea specialist in hepatology and liver transplantation, who said: “We were surprised that so many people had detectable levels of PCE in their blood and that the relationship with liver recovery was so strong.”According to the university’s statement.
Researchers point out that when… Personal consumption expenditures It is detected in the blood, and alcohol consumption and fat accumulation in the liver do not appear to contribute significantly to the development of fibrosis, highlighting the role of the chemical in cases where there are no classic causes of liver damage.
the Environmental Protection Agency I decided to Tetrachlorethylene It poses an unreasonable risk to health under certain conditions of use, which is why in December 2024 we enacted a restrictive framework for its manufacture, import, processing, distribution, use and disposal in most non-industrial and domestic applications. As part of the measures, a phase-out over 10 years was set for use in dry cleaning, and specific guidelines for the industry were issued in January 2025, according to public information from Environmental Protection Agency.
The Environment Agency warns against prolonged exposure to Personal consumption expenditures It can cause neurological changes, kidney damage, effects on the development of fetuses and children, as well as an increased risk of cancer. Acute exposure is associated with respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and transient neurological disturbances.
According to Keck School of MedicineThe research revealed a high prevalence of exposure to Tetrachlorethylene In people from high-income families, a group that frequently uses dry cleaning services. The official statement also explains that dry cleaners face higher risks due to frequent and direct exposure in the work environment.
Study data indicate that environmental exposure to Personal consumption expenditures It may be underestimated as a possible cause of liver damage in people who have no other risk factors. Health authorities suggest considering consulting specialists in case of liver disorders without an obvious cause.
The study was funded by National Institutes of Health and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism In the United States, organizations that encourage research on the effects of environmental toxins on public health. The authors note that additional work is necessary in other populations and continue to evaluate the interaction between chemical exposure and liver disease.
the Environmental Protection Agency Maintains relevant regulations Tetrachlorethylene Based on new scientific evidence and ongoing regulatory analyses. The agency recommends limiting exposure whenever possible, using safe alternatives at home and prioritizing early detection in people at risk of exposure and liver disorders.
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