a-Hexachlorocyclohexane

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A brownish-white colored, sand-like powder with a phosgene-like odor that emits toxic fumes of phosgene gas, hydrochloric acid and other chlorinated compounds when heated to decomposition. a-Hexachlorocyclohexane is the alpha-isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane and is used as an insecticide to treat lice and scabies. Inhalation exposure to this substance causes severe irritation of the nose, throat and lungs; causes anemia, and affects the liver, kidneys, nervous system, cardiovascular system and immune system. a-Hexachlorocyclohexane is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - 1a,2a,3b,4a,5b,6a-Hexachlorocyclohexane - a-1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexachlorocyclohexane - a-Benzene Hexachloride - a-HCH - a-Lindane