Sensory neuropathy associated with Dursban (chlorpyrifos) exposure

Chlorpyrifos (Dursban) is an organophosphate insecticide with extensive domestic and agricultural applications. It is regarded as safe for these purposes; one report of neurotoxicity is attributed to massive ingestion in a suicide attempt. We report eight people who developed peripheral neuropathy after exposure to exterminator-applied commercial Dursban; five also experienced memory loss and cognitive slowing. Evaluation failed to reveal other causes of neurologic dysfunction; symptoms recurred in one patient following accidental reexposure. We conclude that environmental contact with chlorpyrifos can cause sensory neuropathy and CNS dysfunction and that this agent should be used with caution.