n-Hexane polyneuropathy in a ball-manufacturing factory
Article Abstract:
Polyneuropathy (nerve disease throughout the body) can be induced by exposure to certain chemicals. One such chemical is n-hexane, an organic solvent commonly used in industry. In July 1986 a female factory worker in a ball-manufacturing plant in Taiwan developed symptoms of muscle weakness and limb numbness, and was diagnosed with polyneuropathy. Between July 1986 and January 1987, six other cases of polyneuropathy were documented among workers in the same factory. The workers were exposed to n-hexane, toluene, xylene, and benzene during the cement coating processes and nylon fiber winding. After an evaluation, which included a visit to the plant, it was decided that exposure to n-hexane was the main cause of the polyneuropathy. The plant supervisor reported that the manufacturing process had started using n-hexane one year before the first case of polyneuropathy was reported. The severity of the polyneuropathy was related to level of exposure to n-hexane during the nylon fiber winding and cement coating processes. The workers had been in a room with poor ventilation for eight hours each day, and the air concentrations of n-hexane in the work area were high (109 parts per million, ppm). When a new ventilation system was installed in the work area, the seven patients made a complete recovery and no new cases of polyneuropathy developed during a two-year follow-up period. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1991
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Asbestosis: diagnostic dilution
Article Abstract:
Asbestosis is a lung disorder characterized by the development of diffuse interstitial fibrosis, resulting from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. For the patient, this diagnosis usually includes a dim prognosis, limited work ability, and, sometimes, monetary compensation. The precise definition of this disease and a differential diagnosis is essential for the appropriate treatment, as well as the psychological health and future of the patient. In addition to the traditional diagnostic criteria including exposure, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, forced vital capacity measurements, and X-ray imaging, other lung and pulmonary function tests should be considered; these include CT scans, bronchoalveolar lavage and gallium scan, and examination of pulmonary fluids for fibers and ferruginous bodies. The correct interpretation of the test findings is critical to a correct diagnosis. Each of the diagnostic criteria are reviewed in detail, and findings that contravene a diagnosis of asbestosis are described. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1991
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