PCBs can be a health risk associated with the use of x-ray machines.
As the application of x-rays in the workplace increases, so does concern over their effects on health. Some industrial x-rays contain polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, and although these are necessary for proper instrument functioning, they are extremely hazardous to the human body, especially in large doses.
Cancer
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, exposure to PCBs in x-rays is usually the result of a person's occupation. PCBs can be inhaled or come in contact with a person through the skin, but there is a correlation between PCB volatility and increased temperatures. According to the California Department of Public Health, small doses of PCB don't have any major effects, but large doses clearly increase cancer rates in animals. Although there is no concrete evidence of PCBs causing cancer in humans, the CDPH recommends avoiding unnecessary PCB exposure.
Chloracne
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, or ATSDR, exposure to PCBs has been found to cause chloracne. This type of acne is caused by inflammatory responses to PCBs and is an especially painful and persistent form of the condition, according to the California Department of Public Health. Chloracne can appear in a variety of places on the body, even those not normally affected by acne. According to the ATSDR, the resulting cysts can become inflamed or even infected.
PCBs and Fire
PCBs become even more dangerous when involved in fire and released as by-products of combustion, according to the California Department of Public Health. When they are burned, PCBs form polychlorinated dibenzofurans, or PCDFs, and polychlorinated dibenzodioxins, or PCDDs. The chance of inhaling these substances is much greater than the likelihood of being exposed to other forms of PCBs, which increases their toxicity and cancer-causing aspects. However, the California Department of Public Health reports that only small amounts of PCDFs and PCDDs are released in fires. In addition to cancer and chloracne, PCDFs and PCDDs can cause skin and eye irritation, headaches and nausea.
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