ABSTRACT
In this study, 150 workers exposed to pesticides and 50 healthy control subjects were given clinical and dermatological examinations, patch tests, tests of liver and renal function, complete blood count, blood sugar and urinalysis. Activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase was also evaluated. Dermatological findings were positive in 78%, 76% and 54% of workers exposed to organophosphates, pyrethroids and carbamate pesticides respectively. The patch test was positive in 70% of workers exposed to pyrethroids and 64% exposed to carbamate pesticides. Liver enzyme levels were generally increased in workers while antioxidant enzyme activity was significantly decreased in all workers compared with the controls
Subject(s)
Adult , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Age Distribution , Antioxidants/metabolism , Carbaryl/poisoning , Case-Control Studies , Chemical Industry , Dermatitis, Occupational/enzymology , Glutathione Peroxidase/blood , Glutathione Reductase/blood , Liver Function Tests , Skin Absorption , Superoxide Dismutase/bloodABSTRACT
Dentists are exposed to mercury in their working environment as a result of handling and processing of amalgams used in rebuilding teeth. This study include 49 dentists and 20 non dentist control group. The blood mercury levels was measured for all participants who also answered a questionnaire on personal, occupational and medical histories. The aim of this work is to determine the blood mercury levels among dentists and to relate this levels to personal, occupational and medical findings. The main results of this study are: The dentists showed a significant higher mean value of blood mercury levels when compared with the control group [3.76 + 1.72 Vs 0.63 + 0.48 mg/dl], and this level was significantly related to the number of amalgams handled per day and the accidental spills of mercury in work sites. The prevalence of any of the examined symptoms [tremors, insomnia, loss of appetite and anexity] was relatively was relatively higher among dentists than control group. The results are suggestive of presence of potential hazards of mercury toxicity at dental clinics. Studies to determine organic and inorganic mercury levels among dentists would be useful. It is recommended to use non-mercury restorative materials and application of good hygienic measures in dental clinics