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Neurotoxic effects in mercury-exposed workers

G Triebig, K H Schaller

Neurobehavioral Toxicology and Teratology

|November 1, 1982

Summary

Occupational mercury (Hg) exposure may cause mild nerve conduction slowing and memory deficits. However, adhering to biological threshold limit values prevents significant nervous system disorders.

Area of Science:

Occupational Health
Neurotoxicology
Environmental Medicine

Background:

Mercury (Hg) exposure is a concern in occupational settings.
Assessing neurological effects of mercury exposure is crucial for worker safety.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the impact of mercury exposure on nerve conduction velocities (CV) and cognitive function in workers.
To determine if mercury exposure correlates with neurological and psychological changes.

Main Methods:

Measured blood and urine mercury levels and nerve conduction velocities (CV) in exposed workers and a reference group.
Conducted neuropsychiatric examinations and psychological tests, including memory assessments.

Main Results:

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Mild slowing of sensory CV was observed, with some individuals showing mercury-induced abnormalities.

A correlation was found between mercury exposure duration and decreased short-term memory.

No significant dose-effect relationship was established on a group basis for CV abnormalities.

Conclusions:

Occupational mercury exposure can lead to subtle neurological effects like reduced nerve conduction and memory impairment.
Adherence to established Biological Threshold Limit Values (50 µg Hg/l blood, 200 µg Hg/l urine) appears to prevent severe central and peripheral nervous system disorders.