Article archive / October 1, 2012
Originally published: . Volume 4, No. 2. Source pages: 13.
Organic solvents are ubiquitous worldwide. Sources include paints, paint thinners, gasoline, varnishes, degreasing agents, adhesives, printing inks, pesticides, cosmetics and cleaners. Studies have suggested that chronic, high-level solvent exposure might be associated with a syndrome of personality change, memory impairment, and neurological deficits that is termed solvent neurotoxicity. Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, psychomotor deficits, and depression are other symptoms seen as a result of chronic solvent exposure. Occupations with increased solvent exposure include painting, floor laying, printing, and dry cleaning.
1. Dick FD. Solvent neurotoxicity. Occup Environ Med. Mar 2006;63(3):221-226, 179. 2.Bockelmann I, Pfister EA, Peters B, Duchstein S. Psychological effects of occupational exposure to organic solvent mixtures on printers. Disabil Rehabil. Jul 8 2004;26(13):798-807.
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