Effects of subchronic dermal application of break-free CLP registered in CD-1 mice

• Published in: Cutaneous and ocular toxicology 2005-01, Vol.24 (4), p.197-216
• Main Authors: Wilfong, E R, Jederberg, W W, Arfsten, D P, Johnson, E W, Thitoff, AR, Brinkley, W W, Schaeffer, D J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1556-9527; 1556-9535
• DOI: 10.1081/CUS-200068635

Break-Free CLP registered (Break-Free CLP) is a commercial metal cleaning, lubricating, and preserving compound used by the military, law enforcement agencies, and private citizens primarily for cleaning/maintenance of bore weapons. Break-Free CLP is predominantly polyalphaolefin oil, but it also contains dibasic ester, and isoparaffinic hydrocarbons, all of which have induced dermal irritation in laboratory animals. Studies were conducted to determine the biological effects of subchronic dermal application of Break-Free CLP to the clipped backs of CD-1 mice. Break-Free CLP, 2.5% croton oil (CO; positive control) or acetone (control vehicle) were applied neat, 50 mu L/application, three times/week for 90 days. One 50- mu L application to a 20 x 3 cm mouse dorsal skin surface area is roughly equivalent to human dermal contact with 260 mu L of Break-Free CLP, assuming that contact with the material is primarily with the upper arms, forearms, and hands. Subchronic application of 2.5% CO in acetone (positive control) and Break-Free CLP resulted in gradual accumulation of a dermal irritation response over the 90-day study period. Foci of epithelial ulceration were evident in application site skin cross sections from Break-Free CLP- and CO-treated mice, with more cases of ulceration occurring.