Related Experiment Videos
Retinal toxicity associated with occupational exposure to the fish anesthetic MS-222
P S Bernstein1, K B Digre, D J Creel
1Moran Eye Center, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City 84132, USA. paul.bernstein@hsc.utah.edu
Purpose:
To report a case of retinopathy associated with chronic occupational exposure to ethyl-m-aminobenzoic acid methanesulfonate (MS-222), a retinotoxic fish anesthetic.
Method:
Case report with electroretinograms to document changes in visual electrophysiology.
Results:
An ichthyologist with a long history of skin exposure to MS-222 was initially examined for decreased vision, photophobia, and photopsia. His electroretinogram abnormalities were similar to those seen in animal models of acute MS-222 toxicity. After terminating MS-222 contact for 7 months, his vision returned to normal, and his electroretinogram improved.
Conclusion:
Individuals with occupational exposure to MS-222 should exercise caution to avoid systemic absorption of this retinotoxic compound.