Neurotoxicity of industrial solvents: a review of the literature

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1985 · Am. J. Ind. Med.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/ajim.4700080306· OSTI ID:6177148

Baker, Jr, E L; Smith, T J; Landrigan, P J

Organic solvents, particularly stryrene, are used widely in boatbuilding. They may be absorbed by workers either through the respiratory tract or the skin. Uptake is influenced by level and duration of exposure, work load, and specific physiochemical features of each solvent, as well as by work practices and use of protective equipment. Kinetics of metabolism and excretion kinetics are highly variable among compounds. Metabolites can be measured in blood, urine, or exhaled breath and may serve as indirect indices of absorption. Acute high-dose exposure to organic solvents can produce a transient narcotic effect on the central nervous system. This effect occurs in proportion to brain dose, which in turn is determined by intensity and duration of exposure. Additionally, chronic exposures to organic solvents have been reported to produce an increased frequency of neurologic signs and symptoms. These findings include peripheral neuropathies and toxic encephalopathies. The latter are characterized by alterations in affect, memory loss, and impaired cognition. Concern exists that prolonged excessive exposure to organic solvents may lead to premature and persistent dementia in certain workers. 65 references.

• Research Organization: Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA
• OSTI ID: 6177148
• Journal Information: Am. J. Ind. Med.; (United States), Vol. 3
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
ORGANIC SOLVENTS
CHRONIC EXPOSURE
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE
TOXICITY
NERVOUS SYSTEM DISEASES
OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES
OCCUPATIONS
PERSONNEL
SHIPS
SKIN ABSORPTION
ABSORPTION
DISEASES
SOLVENTS
UPTAKE
560306* - Chemicals Metabolism & Toxicology- Man- (-1987)