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Measurement of Vibration Detection Threshold and Tactile Spatial Acuity in Human Subjects
Published on: September 1, 2016
Effects of styrene exposure on vibration perception threshold
Tetsuro Sato1, Reiko Kishi, Yingyan Gong
1Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University(1), Graduate School of Medicine; North 15, West 7, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan.
Neurotoxicology
|December 9, 2008
Summary
Styrene exposure can impair vibration perception, especially in the upper limbs. Past exposure exceeding 50ppm may lead to persistent effects on vibration perception threshold (VPT).
Area of Science:
- Occupational health
- Neurotoxicology
- Sensory physiology
Background:
- Styrene is a common industrial solvent with potential neurotoxic effects.
- Vibration perception threshold (VPT) is a sensitive indicator of peripheral nerve function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of styrene exposure on VPT.
- To determine the dose-effect relationship between styrene exposure levels and VPT.
Main Methods:
- VPT was measured using a Vibrometer in 67 styrene-exposed workers and 151 non-exposed controls.
- Styrene exposure was assessed via end-shift urinary metabolites (mandelic acid and phenylglyoxylic acid) and a cumulative exposure index (CEI).
Main Results:
- Exposed workers had significantly higher VPT than controls.
- Past maximum exposure level and age were significant predictors of VPT.
- A dose-effect relationship was observed in upper limbs, and for both upper and lower limbs when past exposure exceeded 50 ppm.
Conclusions:
- Styrene exposure can negatively affect vibration perception.
- Past exposure to styrene, particularly above 50 ppm, may result in lasting impairments in VPT.
