Neurophysiological findings among workers exposed to organic solvents

Neurophysiological findings among patients with solvent poisoning and among groups with long-term occupational exposure to various solvents are reviewed. Hydrocarbons with six carbon atoms have been shown to cause peripheral neuropathy, which can be revealed with electroneurography and electromyography. Various mixtures of solvents and carbon disulfide have caused similar types of abnormalities. Abnormal electroencephalograms have been reported for patients with solvent poisoning and also connected to occupational exposure. Visual evoked potentials have rarely been applied to study of solvent effects, latency increases have been reported. Multiple lesions within the central and peripheral nervous system should arouse a thought of possible toxic etiology.