CAS Number: 108-95-2. A corrosive, poisonous, crystalline, acidic
compound present in coal tar and wood tar. In dilute solution,
it is used as a disinfectant. Chemical formula = C6H5OH.
Molecular weight = 94.1 g/mol.
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Exposure to phenol may occur from the use of some medicinal
products (including throat lozenges and ointments). Phenol is
highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in
humans after acute (short-term) inhalation or dermal exposures.
Phenol is considered to be quite toxic to humans via oral
exposure. Anorexia, progressive weight loss, diarrhea, vertigo,
salivation, a dark coloration of the urine, and blood and liver
effects have been reported in chronically (long-term) exposed
humans. Animal studies have reported reduced fetal body weights,
growth retardation, and abnormal development in the offspring of
animals exposed to phenol by the oral route. EPA has classified
phenol as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity.