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[Early effects of PCE exposure on visual function among dry cleaning workers]
Andrea Chiesi1, Tiziana Concetta Gioia, Alberto Modenese
1Università degli studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia. andreachiesi.dott@gmail.com.
La Medicina Del Lavoro
|January 30, 2016
Summary
Occupational exposure to perchlorethylene (PCE) below current limits may impair color vision in dry cleaning workers. These exposure levels are not adequately protective against visual function changes.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Toxicology
- Visual Science
Context:
- Dry cleaning workers are occupationally exposed to perchlorethylene (PCE).
- Previous studies suggest a correlation between PCE exposure and color perception impairment.
- The current regulatory limit values for PCE exposure may not be sufficiently protective.
Purpose:
- To investigate visual function alterations in workers exposed to PCE at levels below current occupational limits.
- To assess the impact of PCE exposure on color perception and visual acuity.
Summary:
- A study involving 38 dry cleaning workers and 60 controls measured PCE exposure (mean 16.9 mg/m3).
- Workers underwent color vision tests (Lanthony D15d) and visual acuity tests.
- Significantly higher Index of Color Confusion (ICC) values were found in exposed workers, indicating impaired color perception.
Impact:
- Occupational exposure to PCE, even below current limit values, can induce color vision impairment.
- Current PCE exposure limits may not adequately protect workers' visual function.
- Findings highlight the need for stricter occupational exposure limits for PCE to prevent visual health effects.
