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Systemic

Definition

Systemic means affecting all body systems and organs rather than being localized in one area or organ.

Additional Info Systemic can refer to a disease, symptom, medication or injury. For example, a bad case of the flu (influenza) affects your entire body. Medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects throughout the body from your head to your toes. In the same fashion, chemical substances you might encounter in your workplace can also affect your entire body. Unfortunately, these are much more likely to be harmful or toxic. Books Available "Human Diseases: A Systemic Approach (7th Edition)", Paperback, 544 pages, 2009. Estimated price $43.89. Info and/or order. "Atlas of the Skin and Systemic Disease", Hardcover, 255 pages, 2003. Estimated price $248.68. Info and/or order. "Cutaneous Medicine: Cutaneous Manifestations of Systemic Disease", Hardcover, 782 pages, 2001. Estimated price $69.95. Info and/or order. "Ocular Syndromes and Systemic Diseases: Fourth Edition", Paperback, 396 pages, 2008. Estimated price $62.95. Info and/or order.

Protect your skin (and bodily systems) with Tyvek clothing like this from Safety Emporium.

MSDS Relevance

This word is usually found in the phrase "systemic effects" on an MSDS. Materials that damage more than one area or organ of the body are particularly dangerous because not all parts of the body respond to medical treatment in the same way and impairment of one organ/system may reduce the ability of another organ/system to heal or function.

Always use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with materials that can cause systemic effects. Pay attention to the three principle routes of exposure, skin absorption, inhalation, and ingestion.

Further Reading

• Local vs Systemic Health Effects, a page from an on-line Chemical Safety training program at Yale University.
• A Practical Guide to ISO 10993-11: Systemic Effects from Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry Magazine, July, 1998.

See also: symptomatic.

Additional definitions from Google and OneLook.

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