an enlarged liver. The liver is the most affected system with TeCA poisoning, causing for example apoptosis of the liver tissue. After 60 ppm exposure rats show fatty liver degeneration. Another study determined the limit for acute hepatic failure to be at 102ppm for four hours, indicated by increases in hepatic ascorbic acid and serum glutamate dehydrogenase and decreases in serum triglycerides. Ocular Effects The vapors of TeCA can cause eye irritation, stinging, squinting and lacrimation in both humans and animals. This is due to direct contact of the skin and vapor rather than inhalation or digestion. Neurological effects Inhalation of TeCA vapor can cause dizziness, headache and tremors. Acute symptoms in rats showed in the form of 50% motor loss when exposed to 360ppm for one hour. Carcinogenic Effects The National Cancer Institute performed experiments on the tumorigenicity of TeCA in rats and mice via the oral exposure route. Liver tumors were found in both species. Other studies on the tumorigenic mode of action revealed that it acts both as initiator and promoter. Lethal dose Due to several case study reports on individuals who died after ingesting TeCA, the approximate lethal dose was possible to be established. Since the amount consumed varied this was difficult to exactly determine. One report was shown to be 4100 mg/kg, the second 357 mg/kg and the third 1100-9600mg/kg. Death following the ingestion occurred within 3-20 hours. See also 1,1,1,2-Tetrachloroethane References Chloroalkanes Halogenated solvents Refrigerants IARC Group 2B carcinogens