Altered copper level and renal dysfunction in Nigerian women using skin-whitening agents.

The purpose of the study was to determine the concentration of trace elements in serum samples of women who are chronic users of skin-whitening agents as well as the hepatic and renal effects of these agents on these women. The study was conducted among 23 skin-whitening users while 25 women served as the controls. The serum concentrations of Zn, Mn, and Mg were not significantly changed in these women compared with controls (p > 0.05), but Cu was significantly increased in skin-whitening agent users compared with controls (p < 0.05). Serum urea and creatinine were significantly increased compared with the controls (p < 0.05). Moreover, ALT, AST, albumin, total protein, and bilirubin were not significantly changed (p > 0.05). The significant increase in the levels of renal indices shows that these agents might be nephrotoxic after prolonged usage while increase in copper level with accompanying renal dysfunction may be an indication that copper mediates in oxidative-induced renal dysfunction. However, further study is needed to identify the cause and source of high serum copper as many of the herbal extracts may be rich sources of copper. Moreover, a large population study may be necessary to examine the exact correlation between copper and renal indices.

Biochemical parameters of liver function in artisans occupationally exposed to "vat dyes".

BACKGROUND: Vat dyes are the class of dyes used in textile dyeing in Abeokuta, South Western Nigeria. While some dyes (including vat dyes intermediates) have been associated with adverse effects on manufacturer's health, there is paucity of data on effects of occupational exposure to vat dyes among end users, such as those involved in textile dyeing and finishing. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To investigate the possible effect of occupational exposure to vat dyes on the functions of the liver. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using convenience sampling technique, a cohort of dye workers (n=117) with a minimum of one year and a maximum of 60 years duration of exposure (mean =17.03 ± 1.19 years) were recruited in this study. Sixty traders, matched for age and sex and who had no previous exposure to vat dyes were selected as controls. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on demographic, occupational and environmental characteristics of the subjects. Plasma activities of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and plasma concentrations of total protein, albumin and total bilirubin were measured using standard spectrophotometric methods. STATISTICAL ANALYSES: SPSS version 11.0 was used for statistical analyses. Tests of significance were carried out using Student's t test, and correlation co-efficient. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The activity of ALP and the concentrations of total protein and albumin were significantly lower (P <0.05) in the exposed group. ALT and AST activities were significantly higher (P <0.05) in the exposed group. Occupational exposure to vat dyes may result in sub-clinical adverse effects on the liver, involving inhibition of its synthetic function.