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Abstract
Abstract
Background: Exposure to organic solvents has been associated with central and peripheral nervous system dysfunction. However, not all solvents are equally neurotoxic. The association of clinically significant polyneuropathy after long term of occupational exposure to certain organic solvents alone or in combination is controversial.
Aim of Work: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of prolonged occupational exposure to a mixture of organic solvents upon the somatic peripheral nervous system (PNS)in exposed painting workers.
Methods: The population of the current cross-section study included two groups. The exposed group comprised 40 male workers recruited from a paint factory. The control group included 20 male workers age matched, with no contact with exposure environment, they were from the same factory. The exposed workers were further divided into two groups according to frequency and the pattern of usage of Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs). Data about the nature of organic solvents used were obtained from the factory administration. All workers were subjected to a structured interview questionnaire about their exposure history, medical history taken as well as complete general and neurological examinations. Bilateral nerve conduction studies (NCSs) for motor (common peroneal, median and ulnar) nerves and sensory (sural, median and ulnar) nerves were performed for all study population using a standardized protocol. The diagnosis of neuropathy was established using a combination of symptoms, signs, and NCs measures consistent with standard clinical practice. Potential confounders of NCS measures were examined.