Solvent Induced Headaches

20 Jul 1999 John Sehmer MD,M.Sc <sehmer@interchange.ubc.ca> wrote: 

I have seen three cases of individuals with recurrent headaches induced by solvent exposure . One worked with fiberglass and plastics, another in autobody repair and another using toluene and xylene in the preparation of stencils for grave stone stencils. All three had to give up their occupations and two had trouble getting acceptance for workers compensation. My attempts to find good references on this condition have not been particularly successful and I would be grateful for any recommendations.

Grateful Med did not return any articles . Rom and Zenz do not mention . Joseph Ladou makes a very brief reference to this in his textbook. Thanks

Although it may be a little out of date by now, Peter Arlien-Soborg's book _Solvent Neurotoxicity_ (CRC Press, 1992) would be a good starting point. He cites numerous reports of headaches associated with the solvents you mention (for fiberglass/plastics solvents, see especially the chapter on styrene).

 

Patricia P. Wilcox,

MS School of Public Health

The Ohio State University.

The Occ-Env-Med-L maillist broadcasts messages to the world of professionals in Occupational & Environmental Medicine. Readers include clinicians, public health experts and hygiene and safety professionals

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