Determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in human biological samples: A critical review

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have raised great concern all over the world due to their carcinogenicity and persistence in nature. Exposure to these analytes can be estimated by determining their concentration in biological matrices, allowing PAH levels in the corresponding samples to be extrapolated to those in the environment. In this article we offer a critical review of the methods used to determine PAHs in different biological samples (urine, blood, plasma, serum, saliva, exhaled breath, hair, follicular fluid, placenta, breast milk and cerebrospinal fluid). We focus on sampling methods, preconcentration procedures and different strategies of analysis of PAHs. Emphasis will be placed on the analysis of both unmetabolized and metabolized PAHs, as these analytes usually require different forms of sample treatment. Also, one type of PAHs can be more interesting than others depending on the objective of the study. Advantages and disadvantages of the main contributions will be discussed.