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Evoked potentials are modified by long term exposure to trichloroethylene
L Blain1, P Lachapelle, S Molotchnikoff
1Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Neurotoxicology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Trichloroethylene (TRI) exposure affects rabbit vision, altering visual evoked potentials (VEP). Trichloroethanol levels correlated with these neuro-ophthalmic effects, serving as a marker for TRI
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Trichloroethylene (TRI) is an industrial solvent with known neurotoxic potential.
- Understanding TRI's impact on the visual system is crucial for occupational safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuro-ophthalmotoxic effects of TRI exposure in rabbits.
- To determine the relationship between TRI exposure, visual evoked potentials (VEP), and trichloroethanol blood levels.
Main Methods:
- New Zealand albino rabbits were exposed to 350 ppm or 700 ppm of TRI for 12 weeks.
- Weekly visual evoked potentials (VEP) recordings were performed under mesopic conditions.
- Blood samples were analyzed for TRI and its metabolites, specifically trichloroethanol.
Main Results:
- Exposure to 350 ppm TRI significantly decreased VEP amplitude (p < 0.001).
- Exposure to 700 ppm TRI significantly increased VEP amplitude (p < 0.001).
- Both effects normalized within six weeks post-exposure and correlated with trichloroethanol blood levels.
Conclusions:
- Trichloroethylene (TRI) exhibits neuro-ophthalmotoxicity.
- Trichloroethanol is a reliable biomarker for the neurotoxic dose of TRI.