What chemical is associated with causing angiosarcoma in the liver?

Vinyl chloride is a chemical associated with the development of angiosarcoma in the liver. Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer characterized by the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells, which can occur in several locations, but primary hepatic angiosarcoma has a strong association with vinyl chloride exposure.

Vinyl chloride is commonly used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. Occupational exposure, particularly in the plastics industry, has been linked to an increased risk of developing liver angiosarcoma. This correlation highlights the carcinogenic properties of vinyl chloride, which are believed to involve DNA damage leading to mutations and tumorigenesis.

In contrast, the other chemicals listed do not have a clear or well-established link to liver angiosarcoma. While substances like benzene and formaldehyde can contribute to various forms of cancer, they are not specifically associated with angiosarcoma of the liver. Asbestos is primarily linked to mesothelioma and other lung-related conditions rather than liver tumors. Hence, the association of vinyl chloride with angiosarcoma underscores the importance of recognizing specific environmental and occupational risk factors in cancer pathology.