Toxicological screening for organophosphorous-induced delayed neurotoxicity: complications in toxicity testing

Technical Report · Sat Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1983

OSTI ID:6073174

Organophosphorus-induced delayed neurotoxicity (OPIDN) is discussed. The clinical signs of OPIDN are temporally distinct from the acute anti/acetylcholinesterase (AChE) effect and the syndrome of motor end plate inhibition. OPIDN occurs 6 to 21 days after oral, inhalation, or dermal exposure and its development is independent of an acute cholinergic reaction. The clinical signs include progressive weakness and ataxia beginning distally in the hind or lower limbs and may evolve into a flaccid paralysis that may also extend to the forelimbs. The role of toxicology and possible addenda to current screening procedures for detecting OPIDN are discussed. It is concluded that the range and prevalence of neurotoxic effects of organophosphorus pesticides are greater than expected, when considered from the standpoint of current regulatory and surveillance efforts. As a minimum, every organophosphorus ester that is in commercial use should be characterized as to its ability to induce OPIDN.

• Research Organization: National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6073174
• Report Number(s): PB-86-107703/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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ORGANIC PHOSPHORUS COMPOUNDS
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