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Nitrous oxide neurotoxicity studies in man and rat
Anesthesiology
|September 1, 1980
Summary
This study found no significant neural function differences in dentists exposed to low levels of nitrous oxide (N2O). Animal studies also showed no N2O neurotoxicity, but caution is advised for high human exposures.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Nitrous oxide (N2O) is used in dentistry.
- Potential neurotoxicity from chronic N2O exposure is a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of chronic low-level N2O exposure on human neural function.
- To assess the effects of chronic high-level N2O exposure on animal neural function and structure.
Main Methods:
- Human dentists underwent neurological exams, nerve conduction tests, and sensory tests.
- Rats were exposed to high concentrations of N2O for six months.
- Animal neural function, nerve conduction, and nerve fiber pathology were assessed.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in neural function tests were found between dentists with high and low N2O exposure.
- Rats exposed to high N2O levels showed no differences in well-being, nerve conduction, or nerve fiber pathology compared to controls.
- These findings suggest a lack of peripheral N2O neurotoxicity in rats.
Conclusions:
- Chronic low-level N2O exposure does not appear to affect neural function in dentists.
- While rat studies indicate no peripheral nerve neurotoxicity, extrapolation to heavy human N2O exposure requires caution.