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Olfactory impairment after chronic occupational cadmium exposure
C S Rose1, P G Heywood, R M Costanzo
1Department of Physiology, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298-0551.
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Chronic cadmium exposure in workers was linked to olfactory dysfunction, impacting smell detection and identification. This suggests occupational fumes may harm both kidney and olfactory systems.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Olfactory disorders affect millions, but the role of occupational and environmental exposures remains unclear.
- Cadmium is a toxic metal with known renal effects, but its impact on olfaction is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between occupational cadmium exposure and olfactory dysfunction in workers.
- To assess the relationship between cadmium body burden, renal damage, and olfactory function.
Main Methods:
- Studied 55 workers with chronic occupational exposure to cadmium fumes.
- Measured urinary cadmium and beta 2-microglobulin to assess exposure and renal damage.
- Quantified olfactory function using butanol detection threshold and odor identification tests.
Main Results:
- 44% of cadmium-exposed workers showed mild hyposmia; 13% had moderate to severe hyposmia.
- Workers with high urinary cadmium and proteinuria exhibited the most significant olfactory impairment, particularly in odor detection.
- Cadmium-exposed workers had higher rates of hyposmia compared to a normosmic reference group.
Conclusions:
- Chronic occupational cadmium exposure is associated with olfactory dysfunction.
- Cadmium-induced renal damage may coincide with olfactory impairment, suggesting a link between systemic toxicity and sensory deficits.