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Multiple chemical sensitivity and idiopathic environmental intolerance (part one)
Mitsuyasu Watanabe1, Hideki Tonori, Yoshiharu Aizawa
1Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, 228-8555, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.
Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine
|March 25, 2011
Summary
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), also known as Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (IEI), involves diverse symptoms triggered by low-level chemical exposures. This review explores its theories, causes, prevalence, and clinical presentation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Medicine
- Toxicology
- Clinical Symptomatology
Background:
- Multiple Chemical Sensitivity/Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (MCS/IEI) is characterized by symptoms across multiple organ systems.
- Symptoms are triggered by low-level chemical exposures, affecting a significant portion of patients in occupational/environmental clinics.
- Despite lack of definitive diagnostic markers, MCS/IEI is increasingly recognized globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of MCS/IEI.
- To discuss pathophysiological theories, causative agents, and prevalence.
- To outline the clinical presentation and history of MCS/IEI patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on MCS/IEI.
- Analysis of reported symptoms, triggers, and patient demographics.
- Examination of proposed pathophysiological mechanisms and diagnostic challenges.
Main Results:
- MCS/IEI presents with varied symptoms affecting multiple organ systems.
- Symptoms are linked to exposure to diverse chemical substances at low levels.
- No specific laboratory markers or diagnostic findings are currently established for MCS/IEI.
Conclusions:
- MCS/IEI is a complex condition with significant clinical impact.
- Further research is needed to establish clear diagnostic criteria and understanding.
- Recognition and management of MCS/IEI are growing in clinical practice.
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