Electromyographic changes in automechanics with increased heavy metal levels

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Neurotoxicology
• Environmental Medicine

Background:

• Automechanics are occupationally exposed to various heavy metals.
• Previous studies suggest heavy metal exposure can affect the nervous system.
• The specific impact of multiple heavy metal exposures on peripheral nerves in automechanics requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between heavy metal levels (chromium, copper, lead, manganese, nickel) in automechanics and peripheral nerve function.
• To assess the prevalence of peripheral nerve affection in automechanics with elevated heavy metal burdens.
• To explore potential synergistic effects of heavy metals on nerve damage.

Main Methods:

• Electromyography (EMG) was used to record sensoric and motoric nerve potentials in 20 automechanics.
• Whole blood heavy metal concentrations were measured.
• EMG findings (denervation, latency, conduction velocity) were correlated with heavy metal levels.

Main Results:

• 50% of workers with elevated lead levels showed peripheral neuropathy.
• Seven out of 14 workers with raised nickel also showed nerve signs, linked to lead levels.
• Nerve conduction abnormalities were observed in 6 workers (latency) and 7 workers (velocity).

Conclusions:

• Lead and other heavy metals, including nickel, exhibit a toxic effect on the peripheral nervous system in automechanics.
• Automechanics face diverse toxic exposures, with lead being a primary concern for peripheral neuropathy.
• Synergistic interactions between heavy metals and occupational substances like oils and petroleum are plausible and warrant further study.