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Otoneurological findings in workers exposed to styrene
C Möller1, L Odkvist, B Larsby
1Department of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Long-term occupational styrene exposure, even below limits, can cause central nervous system (CNS) disturbances. Specialized otoneurological tests reveal these issues, unlike standard psychometric assessments.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Occupational styrene exposure is common in industries.
- Previous studies suggest potential neurological effects of styrene.
- Understanding sub-limit exposure effects is crucial for worker safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate central nervous system (CNS) effects of long-term, low-level styrene exposure.
- To evaluate the efficacy of otoneurological tests in detecting styrene-induced neurological disturbances.
- To compare neurological function in styrene-exposed workers with a control group.
Main Methods:
- Administered a comprehensive otoneurological test battery to 18 styrene-exposed workers and a reference group.
- Assessed central auditory pathways and sensory-motor equilibrium functions.
- Utilized static posturography and rotatory visual suppression tests.
Main Results:
- Seven workers showed disturbances in central auditory pathways.
- Sixteen workers had abnormal tests reflecting central processing of sensory equilibrium.
- Styrene group exhibited significantly larger sway area in posturography and poorer vestibular nystagmus suppression.
Conclusions:
- Moderate to low-level styrene exposure can induce CNS disturbances.
- Standard psychometric tests may not detect these effects.
- Specialized otoneurological tests are valuable for diagnosing styrene-related neurological impairments.