Chronic toxicity of perchloroethylene [PCE] in workers of dry-cleaning shops

ABSTRACT

Twenty-four male workers in dry-cleaning shops were investigated for effects of chronic exposure to perchloroethylene in their work places. A control group [n=24] matched by age and sex with the workers was also studied. Systemicexamination, chest X-rays, pulmonary function test, EEG, EMG and liverfunction tests [ALT, AST, GGT, LDH and serum bilirubin, bile acid and albumin]were done to both groups [workers and controls]. The results revealedneuropsychic and gastrointestinal manifestations in all workers [100%] andchest manifestations in 79.17%. X-ray showed chronic bronchitis in 6 workersand emphysematous changes in ten cases; a significant reduction of pulmonary function test was observed with a significant correlation between the duration of PCE exposure, FEV1 and FVC, normal EEC, abnormal EMG finding in 83.33% ofworkers. Increased activities of liver enzymes, serum bilirubin and bile acidand hypoalbuminemia were found in PCE exposed workers