The mutagenicity of dinitrochlorobenzene.

A sample of dinitrochlorobenzene, determined by gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to be greater than 98% pure, was tested in the Salmonella typhimurium plate assay. The chemical evoked a marked mutagenic response at all concentrations tested (3 to 150 micrograms per plate). These results confute the suitability of this agent for the treatment of benign skin disorders.