Where It Comes From
Man-made; associated with military stockpiles, research, and some medical derivatives (not naturally occurring) [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors during spills or releases; skin/eye contact with liquid; touching contaminated clothing/surfaces; workplace handling of nitrogen mustards or related chemotherapy drugs [1][2].
Why It Matters
Causes painful burns/blisters, severe eye injuries, coughing and breathing problems; can suppress bone marrow (low blood cells) and increase long-term cancer risk [1][2][3][4].
Who Is at Risk
Emergency responders, military personnel, lab/cleanup workers, and healthcare workers handling mechlorethamine; children, pregnant people, and those with asthma or skin/eye conditions may be more vulnerable [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
During a release, move upwind and uphill, leave the area, remove outer clothing, and wash skin/eyes with lots of water; get medical care immediately. Workers should use closed systems, fume hoods, proper PPE, and decontamination protocols [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Nitrogen Mustards (HN-1, HN-2, HN-3). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
- [2]CDC. Facts About Nitrogen Mustard (HN-2). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- [3]IARC. Mechlorethamine (HN2). IARC Monographs on the Identification of Carcinogenic Hazards to Humans.
- [4]NTP. Mechlorethamine Hydrochloride. Report on Carcinogens, National Toxicology Program.