What immediate health effects can be caused by TDI exposure?
Low levels of TDI in the air can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs and cause cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Higher levels can cause a build-up of fluid in the lungs, which may cause death. If liquid TDI comes in contact with the skin or eyes, it can cause severe burns. Generally, the more serious the exposure, the more severe the symptoms.

Can TDI poisoning be treated?
There is no antidote for TDI, but its effects can be treated and most exposed persons get well. Seriously exposed persons may need to be hospitalized.

Are any future health effects likely to occur?
After exposure to TDI, certain persons can develop allergies in which even small exposures to TDI or other irritants can trigger asthma attacks or shortness of breath. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor that you have been exposed to TDI. After a serious exposure or repeated exposures, TDI can cause permanent lung damage.

What tests can be done if a person has been exposed to TDI?
Specific tests for the presence of TDI in blood are not available. If a severe exposure has occurred, respiratory function tests and a chest X ray may show whether damage has been done to the lungs. Testing is not needed in every case.

Where can more information about TDI be found?
More information about TDI can be obtained from your regional poison control center; your state, county, or local health department; the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR); your doctor; or a clinic in your area that specializes in occupational and environmental health. If the exposure happened at work, you may wish to discuss it with your employer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

Visit our Regulatory Agencies page to find contact information for the aforementioned government agencies.