[Effect of vibration and noise on glycosaminoglycan (mucopolysaccharide) and hydroxyproline excretion]

In 126 humans occupationally exposed to local vibration and in 50 humans exposed to general vibration, glycosaminoglycanuria (GAG) and hydroxyprolinuria (HP) were examined. In addition, all subjects were exposed to industrial noise. An increased GAG excretion in those exposed to the vibration of low and medium frequencies was found, which is indicative of a damage to the basic substance of the connective tissue. The exposure to the lowest frequencies increases the HP excretion, thus indicating a damage to the collagen fibers.