Microtechnique for quantifying phenol in plasma by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Methods for detection and quantification of phenol have been developed primarily for use in environmental and industrial monitoring, given the widespread use of phenol as a disinfectant and antiseptic. Little information is available regarding concentrations of phenol in the blood of patients treated with phenol in regional nerve blocks (e.g., intrathecal) for temporary relief of pain or spasticity. We report a specific and sensitive method for quantifying phenol in plasma, using chemical derivatization and high-resolution capillary column gas chromatography in conjunction with mass spectrometry. The assay we describe was developed to monitor plasma concentrations of phenol in children given motor point nerve blocks with dilute phenol.