In vivopercutaneous absorption of paraquat from hand, leg, and forearm of humans

This study determines the in vivo percutaneous absorption of paraquat in humans. Three skin sites of application were used in a crossover manner for six subjects. The percents of applied dose (9 micrograms/cm2) absorbed were 0.29 +/- 0.2 (SD) for the leg, 0.23 +/- 0.1 for the hand, and 0.29 +/- 0.1 for the forearm. This gives an in vivo absorption rate of 0.03 microgram/cm2 for the 24-h exposure. Paraquat can be absorbed in vivo through the skin of humans; however, it is considered a minimally absorbed chemical.