In several parts of the world, thyroid insufficiency due to the lack of dietary iodine leads to cretinism. Perchlorate compounds have been widely used as solid rocket propellants and ignitable sources in munitions and fireworks.
Perchlorates are also a laboratory waste by-product of perchloric acid.
Finally, perchlorate has been used diagnostically in humans to determine the ability of the thyroid gland to correctly use dietary iodine. Perchlorate competitively inhibits the active transport of iodine into the thyroid. In light of the severe consequences of insufficient dietary iodine, perchlorate s known mode of action on iodine intake, and recently discovered perchlorate contamination of water supplies, questions have been raised regarding its safe dose for long-term exposure. Recently, additional investigations of the toxicity of perchlorate have been conducted to aid in determining the appropriate RfD value. Study protocols and results can be found at the TERA website.