ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: We conducted a study of the effect of an organic solvent on the failure of ovarian function after exposure to 2-bromopropane for 7 years. METHODS: We conducted a study on 25 female workers in a manufactory who were exposed to 2-bromopropane in 1994. Some of them experienced premature ovarian failure. We have investigated their recoveries from ovarian function and checked LH, FSH, E2, BMD for 7 years of period. RESULTS: 16 among 25 workers experienced amenorrhea, but the rest of them did not report amenorrhea. In 10 out of the 16 amenorrhea patients, recovery from amenorrhea were seen, but 6 did not recover from amenorrhea. Through ovarian biopsy, it was observed in the amenorrhea patients that mature follicles were lost and only primordial follicles were present. Through HRT, gradual decrease in FSH and increase in E2. in the amenorrhea patients were found. Also, their BMD were decreased, but gradually increased with female hormone replacement therapy. CONCLUSION: The study confirms that the exposure to 2-bromopropane leads to the serious ovarian toxicity and ovarian failure as well. In such case, the failure of ovarian function, which is reversible change, can be recovered after long-term periods. A significant factor which affect ovarian failure and recovery from ovarian function is patient's age. In industrial environment, physical and psychological damage due to the use of and exposure to chemical materials will likely increase. Hence, more studies of industrial materials used in working conditions are needed.