Paracelsus, Haber and Arndt

Toxicology. 2001 Mar 7;160(1-3):191-6. doi: 10.1016/s0300-483x(00)00447-9.

Abstract

After a brief overview of the contributions of Paracelsus, Haber and Arndt to the theory of toxicology, examples are provided for quantitative risk/safety assessments using dose (c), time (t) and effect (E) as macroscopic variables of toxicity. The discussion offers explanations for application of the decision tree approach in identifying rate-determining steps in the toxicity of chemicals. Having done so allows for reasonably accurate predictions of cancer incidence (bladder, liver, heart, histiocyte) using Haber's Product under isoeffective conditions and the equation cxt=kxE for isodosic and isotemporal responses.

Publication types

  • Biography
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, Ancient
  • Risk Assessment / history
  • Toxicology / history*

Personal name as subject

  • None Paracelsus
  • F Haber
  • None Arndt