In toxicology, osmotic pressure is significant because it can influence the distribution and concentration of toxins within the body. When a toxin alters the osmotic balance, it can lead to cellular damage or death. For instance, ethanol toxicity can cause dehydration of cells by increasing the osmotic pressure outside the cells, leading to water loss. Conversely, some toxins may cause cellular swelling by reducing osmotic pressure, leading to cell lysis and tissue damage.
