Neurotoxic effects in mercury-exposed workers

Journal Article · · Neurobehav. Toxicol. Teratol.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5847792

Triebig, G; Schaller, K H

Mercury levels in blood and urine and several nerve conduction velocities (CV) were measured in two groups of workers exposed to mercury (Hg) and in a reference group. Furthermore neuropsychiatric examination and psychological tests were performed. There was a significant mild degree of slowing of sensory CV, but no dose-effect relationship was evaluated on a group basis. The individual assessment showed in some cases hints of abnormal CV caused by mercury exposure. Significant correlations were found between duration of exposure and decrease of short-term memory. However there was no relationship in the case of the other psychological tests. In conclusion, results indicate that there are no disorders of central and/or peripheral nervous system function if the valid Biological Threshold Limit Values in FRG (50 micrograms Hg/l blood and/or 200 micrograms Hg/l urine) are not exceeded.

• Research Organization: Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine, University of Erlangen-Nuernbeg, Federal Republic of Germany
• OSTI ID: 5847792
• Journal Information: Neurobehav. Toxicol. Teratol.; (United States), Journal Name: Neurobehav. Toxicol. Teratol.; (United States) Vol. 4:6; ISSN NTOTD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

560306* -- Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology-- Man-- (-1987)
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
BEHAVIOR
BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS
BIOLOGICAL WASTES
BLOOD
BODY FLUIDS
ELEMENTS
HAZARDS
HEALTH HAZARDS
MATERIALS
MENTAL DISORDERS
MERCURY
METALS
PERSONNEL
REFLEXES
TESTING
TOXICITY
URINE
WASTES