Hippuric acid results from the conjugation of benzoic acid with the amino acid glycine. Thus compounds metabolising to benzoic acid or those products which contain benzoic acid or benzoates as preservatives, will lead to hippuric acid excretion in the urine. One such compound is toluene. This solvent is a component of many adhesives and therefore industrial exposure in carpet layers, or others in industry working with these products, is a distinct possibility. 'Glue sniffing' as seen in some marginalised segments of the population, also results in access to toluene.
Urgent testing by arrangement.
