cc: 5. G. - ERD, N-13514
8. w. Culpepper, M.D.

PERSONAL CONFIDENTIAL J. C. Bonnett, M.D.

TO: C. DE MARTINO

FROM: sauce w. KARRH, mo.  March 25, 1981

AMMO IUM PERFLUOROOCTANOATE (PC-143)
C-B COMPOUNDS 

.-

The fluorinated surfactant compound,which is used in TeflonG>
manufacture at Parkersburg and in other applications at Chambers works, has
been found to cause scarring of the eyes of rat fetuses following maternal
exposures during pregnancy. The study was done by 3-H, the supplier of the
material, and was reported by 3-H to EPA under Section Be of TSCA on Monday,?
March 23. 3-H does not plan to inform its employees until the second week
of April.

Effects were found-in the fetuses of mothers exposed at feeding con-
centrations ranging from 25?150 mg/Kg body weight. A no-effect level has not
been determined. Somewhat. similar fluorinated alcohol compounds were found
by 3-M to have similar teratogenic effects in studies reported to EPA in
November 1980. The current study was done for a different reason and the
teratogenic effect was an incidental finding. There is reason to question
the validity of the study and Dr. R. E. Staples, Teratologist at Haskell
Laboratory, is to meet with 3-H this week and review the study and its results;
However, the study is probably valid.

At present, about 50 women employees have potential for exposure to
C-8 compounds at Parkersburg and an undetermined number at Dordrecht,
Chambers works, and Japan. Of the 50 female employees at Parkersburg, three
are pregnant now and 2 probably pregnant. The reproductive capability of the
others is unknown at present. One employee who worked in the area had a
miscarriage followed immediately by a normal pregnancy with a recent normal
outcome. Her potential C-B exposure throughout both pregnancies was described
as "heavy." There was one recent abnormal pregnancy outcome with one female
employee at the Plant, but she did not work where there was any possibility of
exposure to C-8. 

of the employees presently pregnant, one is in her 7th month, one in
her 5th month, one in her 3rd month, and 2 probably just pregnant. One compli-
cating factor is that C-8 is retained in the body for a very long time after
exposure ceases. 

The plan at present is to convene a meeting after Dr. staples reviews
3-M's work, probably by March 27. PPD, Haskell Laboratory, EEO Section,
Labor Law Division, Medical Division, Textile Fibers, Far, and General Legal
will participate. If the study is valid, women of child-bearing potential
will probably be excluded from jobs where there is potential for exposure to
C-8 compounds, at least until a no-effect level is determined. Present plans
are to communicate to employees no later than April 3 and an appropriate package
is being prepared now. Haskell Laboratory will determine what additional testing
needs to be done.

Please let me know if you need additional information.-

BWK: ceb EID096503

Cf