2,6-Dinitrotoluene was tested for carcinogenicity by oral administration in two studies in male rats and increased the incidence of hepatocellular neoplastic nodules and carcinomas. 3,5-Dinitrotoluene has not been tested for carcinogenicity in experimental animals. 5.4 Other relevant data Dinitrotoluenes are absorbed following dermal and inhalation exposure of workers. The most abundant metabolites of dinitrotoluenes found in urine from exposed workers were dinitrobenzoic acids. In addition, amino metabolites have been reported.
Limited data indicate a sex difference in humans as regards the urinary metabolite pattern.
The metabolism and excretion of dinitrotoluenes by rats seem to be qualitatively similar to those in humans. However, there are quantitative differences as regards prevalence of different metabolites. Further, dinitrotoluenes may give rise to allergic contact dermatitis. A variety of toxic effects are observed in animals following acute administration of various dinitrotoluene isomers. Certain dinitrotoluene isomers, most notably 2,6-dinitrotoluene, produce extensive centrilobular hepatic necrosis following administration in vivo.