Trichloroethylene-contaminated drinking water and congenital heart defects: a critical analysis of the literature.

The organic solvent trichloroethylene (TCE) is a metal degreasing agent and an intermediate in the production of fluorochemicals and polyvinyl chloride. TCE is also a common, persistent drinking water contaminant. Several epidemiological studies have alleged links between TCE exposure during pregnancy and offspring health problems including congenital heart defects (CHDs); however, the results of these studies are inconsistent, difficult to interpret, and involve several confounding factors.

Analysis of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug literature for potential developmental toxicity in rats and rabbits.

Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly prescribed to pregnant women. Some case-control studies have linked the NSAIDs aspirin and indomethacin with a risk of congenital abnormalities and low birthweight. High doses of aspirin produce developmental toxicity in rats (e.