Ophthalmological aspects of chronic CS2 intoxication

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ophthalmology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Chronic exposure to carbon disulfide (CS2) is a concern in industries like viscose rayon production.
• The xanthation spinning department is identified as an area with higher risk for CS2 intoxication.
• A pilot study was conducted to investigate potential health effects before a larger survey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a preliminary ophthalmological evaluation of workers in a viscose rayon industry.
• To identify potential ocular toxicity associated with chronic carbon disulfide (CS2) exposure.
• To compare findings between workers in a high-exposure department and a control group.

Main Methods:

• Ophthalmological examinations were performed on 30 viscose rayon workers (20 exposed, 10 controls).
• Evaluations included visual fields, color vision testing, fluoro-angiography, electroretinography (ERG), and electrooculography (EOG).
• Workers were categorized based on their department: xanthation spinning (higher risk) and bleaching (control).

Main Results:

• Fundus anomalies were observed in both exposed workers and control groups.
• Abnormal electrooculography (EOG) results were detected across both groups.
• Subnormal or supranormal electroretinography (ERG) findings were present in participants.
• Fundus anomalies included pigmentary changes and microvascular retinal lesions.

Conclusions:

• The pilot study suggests potential ophthalmological effects in workers exposed to carbon disulfide (CS2).
• Unexpected findings in the control group warrant further investigation into potential environmental or systemic factors.
• Further large-scale studies are necessary to confirm and elucidate the chronic effects of CS2 on vision.