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Ibrahim NM, Jagota P, Pal PK, Bhidayasiri R, Lim SY, Ugawa Y, Aldaajani Z, Jeon B, Fujioka S, Lee JY, Kukkle PL, Shang H, Phokaewvarangkul O, Diesta C, Shambetova C, Lin CH. Historical and More Common Nongenetic Movement Disorders From Asia. J Mov Disord 2023; 16:248-260. [PMID: 37291830 PMCID: PMC10548075 DOI: 10.14802/jmd.22224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Nongenetic movement disorders are common throughout the world. The movement disorders encountered may vary depending on the prevalence of certain disorders across various geographical regions. In this paper, we review historical and more common nongenetic movement disorders in Asia. The underlying causes of these movement disorders are diverse and include, among others, nutritional deficiencies, toxic and metabolic causes, and cultural Latah syndrome, contributed by geographical, economic, and cultural differences across Asia. The industrial revolution in Japan and Korea has led to diseases related to environmental toxin poisoning, such as Minamata disease and β-fluoroethyl acetate-associated cerebellar degeneration, respectively, while religious dietary restriction in the Indian subcontinent has led to infantile tremor syndrome related to vitamin B12 deficiency. In this review, we identify the salient features and key contributing factors in the development of these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norlinah Mohamed Ibrahim
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Priya Jagota
- Chulalongkorn Centre of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pramod Kumar Pal
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health & Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Roongroj Bhidayasiri
- Chulalongkorn Centre of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
- The Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Shen-Yang Lim
- The Mah Pooi Soo & Tan Chin Nam Centre for Parkinson’s & Related Disorders, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yoshikazu Ugawa
- Department of Human Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Zakiyah Aldaajani
- Neurology Unit, King Fahad Military Medical Complex, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Beomseok Jeon
- Department of Neurology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
- Movement Disorder Center, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shinsuke Fujioka
- Department of Neurology, Fukuoka University, Faculty of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jee-Young Lee
- Department of Neurology, Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center, Seoul National University Medical College, Seoul, Korea
| | - Prashanth Lingappa Kukkle
- Center for Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore, India
- Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Clinic, Bangalore, India
| | - Huifang Shang
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, Rare Diseases Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Onanong Phokaewvarangkul
- Chulalongkorn Centre of Excellence for Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Cid Diesta
- Section of Neurology, Department of Neuroscience, Makati Medical Center, NCR, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Chin-Hsien Lin
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Nakamura M, Taulu S, Tachimori H, Tomo Y, Kawashima T, Miura Y, Itatani M, Tobimatsu S. Single-trial neuromagnetic analysis reveals somatosensory dysfunction in chronic Minamata disease. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 38:103422. [PMID: 37163912 PMCID: PMC10189551 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury pollution is a global problem, and Minamata disease (MD) is a stark reminder that exposure to methylmercury can cause irreversible neurological damage. A "glove and stocking type" sensory disturbance due to injured primary sensory cortex (SI) (central somatosensory disturbance) is the most common neurologic sign in MD. As this sign is also prevalent in those with polyneuropathy, we aimed to develop an objective assessment for detecting central somatosensory disturbances in cases of chronic MD. We selected 289 healthy volunteers and 42 patients with MD. We recorded the sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) and somatosensory evoked magnetic fields (SEFs) to median nerve stimulation with magnetoencephalography. Single-trial epochs were classified into three categories (N20m, non-response, and P20m epochs) based on the cross-correlation between averaged sensor SEFs and individual epochs. We assessed SI responses (the appearance rate of P20m [P20m rate] and non-response epochs [non-response rate]) and early somatosensory cortical processing (N20m amplitude, reproducibility of N20m in single-trial responses [cross-correlation value], and induced gamma-band oscillations of the SI [gamma response] of single epochs excluding non-response epochs). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to examine the diagnostic accuracy of each parameter. We found that SNAPs exerted a marginal effect on the N20m. The N20m amplitude, cross-correlation value, and gamma response were significantly reduced in the MD group on either side (p < 0.0001), suggestive of altered early somatosensory cortical processing. Interestingly, the P20m rate and non-response rate were significantly increased in the MD group on either side (p < 0.0001), thereby suggesting impaired SI responses. Notably, P20m and absent N20m peaks were observed in 6 and 11 patients with MD, respectively, which may be attributed to increased numbers of P20m epochs. The cross-correlation value exhibited the highest correlation with the P20m rate or non-response rate. Thus, reduced reproducibility of N20m may play an important role in chronic MD. The cross-correlation value exhibited the highest correlation with the gamma response for both SI parameters in early somatosensory cortical processing. The area under the curve was > 0.77 (range: 0.77-0.79) for all parameters. Their confidence intervals overlapped with each other; thus, each SEF parameter likely had an approximately equivalent discrimination ability. In conclusion, chronic MD is characterized by impaired SI responses and alterations in early somatosensory cortical processing. Thus, single-trial neuromagnetic analysis of somatosensory function may be useful for detecting central somatosensory disturbance and elucidating the relevant pathophysiological mechanisms even in the context of chronic MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Nakamura
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Samu Taulu
- Department of Physics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Hisateru Tachimori
- Department of Clinical Data Science, Clinical Research & Education Promotion Division, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan; Endowed Course for Health System Innovation, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yui Tomo
- Department of Clinical Data Science, Clinical Research & Education Promotion Division, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Kawashima
- Department of Clinical Data Science, Clinical Research & Education Promotion Division, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yoko Miura
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Mina Itatani
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Shozo Tobimatsu
- Department of Orthoptics, Faculty of Medical Science, Fukuoka International University of Health and Welfare, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Tousignant B, Chatillon A, Philibert A, Da Silva J, Fillion M, Mergler D. Visual Characteristics of Adults with Long-Standing History of Dietary Exposure to Mercury in Grassy Narrows First Nation, Canada. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4827. [PMID: 36981736 PMCID: PMC10049103 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the 1960s, Grassy Narrows First Nation (Ontario, Canada) has been exposed to methyl mercury (Hg) through fish consumption, resulting from industrial pollution of their territorial waters. This cross-sectional study describes the visual characteristics of adults with documented Hg exposure between 1970 and 1997. Oculo-visual examinations of 80 community members included visual acuity, automated visual fields, optical coherence tomography [OCT], color vision and contrast sensitivity. Median age was 57 years (IQR 51-63) and 55% of participants were women. Median visual acuity was 0.1 logMAR (Snellen 6/6.4; IQR 0-0.2). A total of 26% of participants presented a Visual Field Index inferior to 62%, and qualitative losses assessment showed concentric constriction (18%), end-stage concentric loss (18%), and complex defects (24%). On OCT, retinal nerve fiber layer scans showed 74% of participants within normal/green range. For color testing with the Hardy, Rand, and Rittler test, 40% presented at least one type of color defect, and with the Lanthony D-15 test, median color confusion index was 1.59 (IQR 1.33-1.96). Contrast sensitivity showed moderate loss for 83% of participants. These findings demonstrate important loss of visual field, color vision, and contrast sensitivity in older adults in a context of long-term exposure to Hg in Grassy Narrows First Nation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Tousignant
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, 3744 Jean-Brillant, Montreal, QC H3T 1P1, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, 7101 Avenue du Parc, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Annie Chatillon
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, 3744 Jean-Brillant, Montreal, QC H3T 1P1, Canada
| | - Aline Philibert
- Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire sur le Bien-être, la Santé, la Société et L’environnement (Cinbiose), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Judy Da Silva
- Grassy Narrows First Nation, General Delivery, Grassy Narrows, ON P0X 1B0, Canada
| | - Myriam Fillion
- Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire sur le Bien-être, la Santé, la Société et L’environnement (Cinbiose), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TÉLUQ, 5800, Rue Saint-Denis, Bureau 1105, Montréal, QC H2S 3L5, Canada
| | - Donna Mergler
- Centre de Recherche Interdisciplinaire sur le Bien-être, la Santé, la Société et L’environnement (Cinbiose), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
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Kumar A, Sidharth S, Kandasubramanian B. A review on algal biosorbents for heavy metal remediation with different adsorption isotherm models. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:39474-39493. [PMID: 36780087 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25710-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Biosorbent composites like chitin, alginate, moss, xanthene, and cotton can be derived from biotic species such as plants, algae, fungi, and bacteria which can be used for the exclusion of both organic and inorganic toxicants from sewage, industrial effluent, polluted soils, and many more. The use of composites in place of raw substrates like alginate and chitin increases the adsorption capacity as CS4CPL1 beads increase the adsorption capacity for copper and nickel from 66.7 mg/g and 15.3 mg/g in the case of alginate microsphere to 719.38 mg/g and 466.07 mg/g respectively. Biosorbent fabricated from algae Chlorella vulgaris having surface area of 12.1 m2/g and pore size of 13.7 nm owing to which it displayed a higher adsorption capacity for Pb 0.433 mmol/g indicating their potential as an efficient biosorbent material. This article contains detailed information related to heavy metals as well as biosorbent that includes different isotherms, kinetics, techniques to estimate heavy metal concentration, removal methods, and adverse health effects caused due to heavy metal pollution. Apart from the above recovery and reuse of biosorbent, correlation with the sustainable development goals has also been included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok Kumar
- Nano Surface Texturing Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune, 411025, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sumati Sidharth
- Technology Management, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune, 411025, Maharashtra, India
| | - Balasubramanian Kandasubramanian
- Nano Surface Texturing Laboratory, Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DU), Ministry of Defence, Girinagar, Pune, 411025, Maharashtra, India.
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Engineering single-atom Pd sites in ZIF-derived porous Co3O4 for enhanced elementary mercury removal. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.123050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Philibert A, Fillion M, Da Silva J, Lena TS, Mergler D. Past mercury exposure and current symptoms of nervous system dysfunction in adults of a First Nation community (Canada). Environ Health 2022; 21:34. [PMID: 35292021 PMCID: PMC8925187 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-022-00838-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The watershed in Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek (Grassy Narrows First Nation) territory has been contaminated by mercury (Hg) since 1962, resulting in very high Hg concentrations in fish, central to the community's culture, traditions, economy and diet. Biomarkers of Hg exposure (umbilical cord blood and hair/blood samples), monitored between 1970 and 1997, decreased over time. A recent Grassy Narrows Community Health Assessment (GN-CHA) survey included current symptoms of nervous system dysfunction. The present study aimed to cluster self-reported symptoms and examine their associations with past Hg exposure. METHODS The GN-CHA included 391 adults. Symptom clustering used a two-step segmentation approach. Umbilical cord Hg and/or yearly measurements of equivalent hair Hg were available for 242 participants. Structural Equation Models (SEM) displayed the associations between Hg exposure and clusters, with Hg exposure modelled as a latent variable or in separate variables (prenatal, childhood and having had hair Hg ≥ 5 μg/g at least once over the sampling period). Longitudinal Mixed Effects Models (LMEM) served to examine past hair Hg with respect to clusters. RESULTS A total of 37 symptoms bonded into 6 clusters, representing Extrapyramidal impairment, Sensory impairment, Cranial nerve disturbances, Gross motor impairment, Neuro-cognitive deficits and Affect/Mood disorders. Median Hg concentrations were 5 μg/L (1-78.5) and 1.1 μg/g (0.2-16) for umbilical cord and childhood hair, respectively. More than one-third (36.6%) had hair Hg ≥ 5 μg/g at least once. In SEM, latent Hg was directly associated with Extrapyramidal and Sensory impairment, Cranial nerve disturbances and Affect/Mood disorders. Direct associations were observed for prenatal exposure with Affect/Mood disorders, for childhood exposure with Extrapyramidal impairment and Cranial nerve disturbances, and for hair Hg ≥ 5 μg/g with Extrapyramidal and Sensory impairment. For all clusters, a further association between past Hg exposure and symptom clusters was mediated by diagnosed nervous system disorders. LMEM showed higher past hair Hg among those with higher scores for all clusters, except Affect/Mood disorders. CONCLUSION Our findings provide evidence that in this First Nation community, past Hg exposure from fish consumption was associated with later-life clusters of coexisting symptoms of nervous system dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Philibert
- Université du Québec à Montréal, Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire sur le bien-être, la santé, la société et l'environnement (Cinbiose), CP 8888, Succ. Centreville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3P8, Canada
| | - Myriam Fillion
- Université du Québec à Montréal, Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire sur le bien-être, la santé, la société et l'environnement (Cinbiose), CP 8888, Succ. Centreville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3P8, Canada
- Département Science et Technologie, Université TÉLUQ, 5800 Saint Denis St, Montréal, Québec, H2S 3L4, Canada
| | - Judy Da Silva
- Grassy Narrows First Nation, General Delivery, P0X 1B0, Grassy Narrows, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Donna Mergler
- Université du Québec à Montréal, Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire sur le bien-être, la santé, la société et l'environnement (Cinbiose), CP 8888, Succ. Centreville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3P8, Canada.
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Manto MU. Cerebellotoxic Agents. HANDBOOK OF THE CEREBELLUM AND CEREBELLAR DISORDERS 2022:2363-2408. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23810-0_96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Sarker A. Ecological perspectives on water, food, and health security linkages: the Minamata case in Japan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:10.1007/s11356-021-14207-8. [PMID: 33931814 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14207-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Extant studies address water, food, and health security issues considerably separately and within narrow disciplinary confines. This study investigates the links among these three issues from an ecological viewpoint with a multidisciplinary approach in a modified Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework developed by the United Nations. The modified framework includes water, food, and health security considerations as the three constituents of human well-being from an ecological (more specifically, ecosystem services) viewpoint. This study examines the links through published data associated with the Minamata incident, which was a historic and horrific methylmercury-induced water, food, and health poisoning crisis in Japan. The results show that when heavy metal pollution changes one component (marine water) of the provisioning ecosystem services, this change subsequently affects another component (seafood) of the services. This then defines the linkages among water, food, and health security as the three constituents of human well-being within the modified framework. The links can have immediate and far-reaching economic, social, legal, ethical, and justice implications within and across generations. This study provides important evidence for emerging economies that ignore the water-food-health security nexus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashutosh Sarker
- Department of Economics, School of Business, Monash University (Malaysia Campus), 47500, Sunway City, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Manto MU. Cerebellotoxic Agents. HANDBOOK OF THE CEREBELLUM AND CEREBELLAR DISORDERS 2021:1-46. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-97911-3_96-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Guzzi G, Ronchi A, Pigatto P. Toxic effects of mercury in humans and mammals. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:127990. [PMID: 32846288 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The clinical manifestations of methylmercury toxicity do not differ greatly according to the acute and/or chronic methylmercury overexposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianpaolo Guzzi
- Italian Association for Metals and Biocompatibility Research, A.I.R.M.E.B, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Ronchi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Laboratory of Experimental and Clinical Toxicology - Toxicology Unit, Pavia Poison Control Center and National Toxicology Information Center, Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Pigatto
- Clinical Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20161, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
Background Abnormal restricted diffusion on magnetic resonance imaging is often associated with ischemic stroke or anoxic injury, but other conditions can present similarly. We present six cases of an unusual but consistent pattern of restricted diffusion in bilateral hippocampi and cerebellar cortices. This pattern of injury is distinct from typical imaging findings in ischemic, anoxic, or toxic injury, suggesting it may represent an under-recognized clinicoradiographic syndrome. Despite initial presentation with stupor or coma in the context of obstructive hydrocephalus, patients may have acceptable outcomes if offered early intervention. Methods We identified an ad hoc series of patients at our two institutions between years 2014 and 2017 who presented to the neurocritical care unit with severe, otherwise unexplained cerebellar edema and retrospectively identified several commonalities in history, presentation, and imaging. Results Between two institutions, we identified six patients—ages 33–59 years, four male—with similar presentations of decreased level of consciousness in the context of intoxicant exposure, with acute cytotoxic edema of the cerebellar cortex, hippocampi, and aspects of the basal nuclei. All patients presented with severe cerebellar edema which led to obstructive hydrocephalus requiring aggressive medical and/or surgical management. The five patients who survived to discharge demonstrated variable degrees of physical and memory impairment on discharge and at follow-up. Conclusions We present findings of a potentially novel syndrome involving a distinct pattern of cerebellar and hippocampal restricted diffusion, with imaging and clinical characteristics distinct from ischemic stroke, hypoxic injury, and known toxidromes and leukoencephalopathies. Given the potential for favorable outcome despite early obstructive hydrocephalus, early identification and treatment of this syndrome are critical.
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Juliano AF, Policeni B, Agarwal V, Burns J, Bykowski J, Harvey HB, Hoang JK, Hunt CH, Kennedy TA, Moonis G, Pannell JS, Parsons MS, Powers WJ, Rosenow JM, Schroeder JW, Slavin K, Whitehead MT, Corey AS. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Ataxia. J Am Coll Radiol 2019; 16:S44-S56. [PMID: 31054758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Zellner T, Zellner N, Felgenhauer N, Eyer F. Dementia, epilepsy and polyneuropathy in a mercury-exposed patient: investigation, identification of an obscure source and treatment. BMJ Case Rep 2016; 2016:bcr-2016-216835. [PMID: 27793866 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-216835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a patient aged 54 years with early onset of dementia, epilepsy and peripheral polyneuropathy. A mercury intoxication was diagnosed in 2010, chelation therapy with 2,3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonate had failed. A source of exposure could not be identified. MRI showed unspecific hyperintense brain lesions in 2015. She was referred for diagnosis and treatment. Neuropsychological testing indicated severe memory loss and nerve conduction speed measurements showed chronic neurogenically changed potentials. Mercury levels in blood and urine and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) were elevated. A detailed patient history revealed a daily application of mercury-containing skin lightening creams for 6 years. Treatment with 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) was started, blood mercury levels were falling during treatment. She was discharged with DMSA prescriptions. A renewed MRI revealed unchanged brain lesions. Blood and urine mercury levels and NSE were falling. Memory function had improved qualitatively and quantitatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Zellner
- Department for Clinical Toxicology, Klinikum rechts der Isar-School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nicolas Zellner
- Department for Clinical Toxicology, Klinikum rechts der Isar-School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Norbert Felgenhauer
- Department for Clinical Toxicology, Klinikum rechts der Isar-School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Eyer
- Department for Clinical Toxicology, Klinikum rechts der Isar-School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Contribution of metals to brain MR signal intensity: review articles. Jpn J Radiol 2016; 34:258-66. [PMID: 26932404 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-016-0532-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Various metals are essential nutrients in humans, and metal shortages lead to a variety of deficiency diseases. Metal concentration abnormalities may cause metal deposition in the brain, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most potent and sensitive technique now available for detecting metal deposition given the difficulties associated with performing brain tissue biopsy. However, the brain contains many kinds of metals that affect the signal intensity of MRI, which has led to numerous misunderstandings in the history of metal analysis. We reviewed the history of brain metal analysis with histologic findings. Typically, manganese overload causes high signal intensity on T1-weighted images (T1WI) in the globus pallidus, iron overload causes low signal intensity in the globus pallidus on T2-weighted images, and gadolinium deposition causes high signal intensity in the dentate nucleus, globus pallidus, and pulvinar of thalamus on T1WI. However, because nonparamagnetic materials and other coexisting metals also affect the signal intensity of brain MRI, the quantitative analysis of metal concentrations is difficult. Thus, when analyzing metal deposition using MRI, caution should be exercised when interpreting the validity and reliability of the obtained data.
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Manto M. Toxic Agents. ESSENTIALS OF CEREBELLUM AND CEREBELLAR DISORDERS 2016:601-611. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-24551-5_80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Nakamura M, Hachiya N, Murata KY, Nakanishi I, Kondo T, Yasutake A, Miyamoto KI, Ser PH, Omi S, Furusawa H, Watanabe C, Usuki F, Sakamoto M. Methylmercury exposure and neurological outcomes in Taiji residents accustomed to consuming whale meat. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 68:25-32. [PMID: 24685489 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a major environmental neurotoxicant that causes damage to the central nervous system. In Japan, industrial emission of MeHg has resulted in MeHg intoxication in Minamata and Niigata, the so-called Minamata disease. Humans are exposed to MeHg derived from natural sources, primarily fish and fish predators. Therefore, MeHg continues to be an environmental risk to human health, particularly in susceptible populations that frequently consume substantial amounts of fish or fish predators such as whale. This study aimed to investigate the health effects of MeHg exposure in adults. The subjects were 194 residents (117 males, 77 females; age 20-85 years) who resided in the coastal town of Taiji, the birthplace of traditional whaling in Japan. We analyzed hair for mercury content and performed detailed neurological examinations and dietary surveys. Audiometry, magnetic resonance imaging, and electromyography were performed to diagnose neurological defects. Whole blood mercury and selenium (Se) levels were measured in 23 subjects. The geometric mean of the hair mercury levels was 14.9 μg/g. Twelve subjects revealed hair mercury levels >50 μg/g (NOAEL) set by WHO. Hair mercury levels significantly correlated with daily whale meat intake. These results suggested that residents in Taiji were highly exposed to MeHg by ingesting MeHg-contaminated whale meat. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated no significant correlations between hair mercury levels and neurological outcomes, whereas some of the findings significantly correlated with age. A significantly positive correlation between whole blood mercury and Se levels was observed and the whole blood mercury/Se molar ratios of all subjects were <1. These findings suggested that sufficient Se intake might be one of causes of the absence of adverse effects of MeHg exposure in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaaki Nakamura
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan.
| | - Noriyuki Hachiya
- Department of International Affairs and Environmental Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
| | - Ken-ya Murata
- Department of Neurology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Ichiro Nakanishi
- Department of Neurology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Tomoyoshi Kondo
- Department of Neurology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Akira Yasutake
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
| | - Ken-ichiro Miyamoto
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
| | - Ping Han Ser
- Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sanae Omi
- Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hana Furusawa
- Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiho Watanabe
- Department of Human Ecology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fusako Usuki
- Department of Clinical Medicine, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
| | - Mineshi Sakamoto
- Department of International Affairs and Environmental Sciences, National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Japan
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Janulewicz PA, Killiany RJ, White RF, Martin BM, Winter MR, Weinberg JM, Aschengrau A. Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging in an adult cohort following prenatal and early postnatal exposure to tetrachloroethylene (PCE)-contaminated drinking water. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2013; 38:13-20. [PMID: 23571160 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2013.03.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This population-based retrospective cohort study examined Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain in relation to prenatal and early postnatal exposure to tetrachloroethylene (PCE)-contaminated drinking water on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Subjects were identified through birth records from 1969 through 1983. Exposure was modeled using pipe network information from town water departments, a PCE leaching and transport algorithm, EPANet water flow modeling software, and Geographic Information System (GIS) methodology. Brain imaging was performed on 26 exposed and 16 unexposed subjects. Scans were acquired on a Philips 3T whole body scanner using the ADNI T1-weighted MP-RAGE scan. The scans were processed by FreeSurfer version 4.3.1 software to obtain measurements of specific brain regions. There were no statistically significant differences between exposed and unexposed subjects on the measures of white matter hypointensities (β: 127.5mm(3), 95% CI: -259.1, 1514.0), white matter volumes (e.g. total cerebral white matter: β: 21230.0mm(3), 95% CI: -4512.6, 46971.7) or gray matter volumes (e.g. total cerebral gray matter: β: 11976.0mm(3), 95% CI: -13657.2, 37609.3). The results of this study suggest that exposure to PCE during gestation and early childhood, at the levels observed in this population, is not associated with alterations in the brain structures studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia A Janulewicz
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University Schools of Public Health and Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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18
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Manto M. Cerebellotoxic Agents. HANDBOOK OF THE CEREBELLUM AND CEREBELLAR DISORDERS 2013:2079-2117. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-1333-8_96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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19
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Abstract
The cerebellum is particularly vulnerable to intoxication and poisoning, especially so the cerebellar cortex and Purkinje neurons. In humans, the most common cause of a toxic lesion to the cerebellar circuitry is alcohol related, but the cerebellum is also a main target of drug exposure (such as anticonvulsants, antineoplastics, lithium salts, calcineurin inhibitors), drug abuse and addiction (such as cocaine, heroin, phencyclidine), and environmental toxins (such as mercury, lead, manganese, toluene/benzene derivatives). Although data for the prevalence and incidence of cerebellar lesions related to intoxication and poisoning are still unknown in many cases, clinicians should keep in mind the list of agents that may cause cerebellar deficits, since toxin-induced cerebellar ataxias are not rare in daily practice. Moreover, the patient's status may require immediate therapies when the intoxication is life-threatening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Manto
- Unité d'Etude du Mouvement, FNRS Neurologie, ULB Erasme, Brussels, Belgium.
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20
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Benz MR, Lee SH, Kellner L, Döhlemann C, Berweck S. Hyperintense lesions in brain MRI after exposure to a mercuric chloride-containing skin whitening cream. Eur J Pediatr 2011; 170:747-50. [PMID: 21052738 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-010-1333-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to inorganic mercury (Hg) is a serious problem presenting with a combination of neurological and psychiatric symptoms along with weight loss, pruritus, erythema, arterial hypertension, tachycardia, and renal tubular dysfunction. We report a 4-year-old girl with chronic intoxication of inorganic mercury secondary to the accidental use of an Hg₂Cl₂- and HgCl₂-containing skin whitening cream (urine level of Hg, 41.1 μg/l; reference level, < 25 μg/l). Under treatment with dimercapto-1-propansulficacid, Hg level in the urine raised to 1,175.5 μg/l, neurological deterioration occurred, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed on fluid attenuated inversion recovery sequences new hyperintense lesions in the subcortical white matter. After 4 months, clinical signs and symptoms and brain MRI findings resolved. This is a first case of inorganic mercury poisoning showing hyperintense lesions in brain MRI and confirms earlier cases showing transient deterioration during chelation therapy. Although urinary excretion could be enhanced during chelation therapy, signs and symptoms of intoxication could be worsened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus R Benz
- Dr. von Haunersches Kinderspital, University Children's Hospital, Ludwigs-Maximilians-University, Munich, Munich, Germany.
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21
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Preliminary Findings on the Effects of Occupational Exposure to Mercury Vapor Below Safety Levels on Visual and Neuropsychological Functions. J Occup Environ Med 2009; 51:1403-12. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e3181bca9ea] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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22
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Abbaslou P, Zaman T. A Child with Elemental Mercury Poisoning and Unusual Brain MRI Findings. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2008; 44:85-8. [PMID: 16496500 DOI: 10.1080/15563650500394969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Mercury vapor poisoning is a serious and potentially fatal problem. Neurological manifestations involving the central nervous system are seen with chronic mercury intoxication. We present the case of a 10-year-old child who demonstrated acrodynia, seizures, and visual impairment following 20 days of exposure to elemental mercury at home. The initial blood mercury concentration was 27.7 microg/L (normal <2 microg/L) and the initial 24-hour urine mercury concentration was 34.4 microg/L (normal =10 microg/L). After 9 months of treatment with D-penicillamine, the patient's clinical condition, biochemical laboratory parameters, and mercury concentrations all returned to normal. The T2-weighted MRI images of the patient's brain initially showed multiple hyperintense lesions in cerebral white matter, left globus pallidus, and putamen, which also improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Abbaslou
- Pediatrics Department, Children Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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23
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de Oliveira RB, Gomes Leal W, Picanço-Diniz DLW, Torres Neto JB, Lins N, Malm O, Picanço-Diniz CW. Three dimensional morphometric analyses of axon terminals early changes induced by methylmercury intoxication in the adult cat striate cortex. Brain Res 2008; 1244:155-63. [PMID: 18835550 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2008.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2008] [Revised: 09/11/2008] [Accepted: 09/12/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present report is to investigate in detail morphometric changes of axon terminals of area 17 of adult cat induced by methylmercury intoxication. Six adult male cats (Felix catus), with 12 h day-light cycle and ad libitum water and food regimen, received a single dose of MeHgCl (6.4 mg/kg) dissolved in milk, whereas control subjects (n=6) received only milk. After 30 days, biocytin iontophoretic injections were done into the area 17, (Horsley-Clark coordinates between AP 3.0-6.0) on the crown of the lateral gyrus, near the border with area 18. MeHg and inorganic Hg (Hgi) concentrations were measured in the brain parenchyma of intoxicated cats and corresponded on average to 1.39+/-0.3 and 6.79+/-0.6 ppm (mean+/-s.e.m.) respectively. Twenty four hours after iontophoresis, aldehyde fixed brain sections (200 microm thick), were processed to reveal biocytin labeled terminals. Axonal microscopic 3D reconstructions using Neurolucida software (Microbright Systems Inc.) allowed estimations of boutons, branching points and segment densities for each terminal. Cluster analysis of morphometric axonal features from control and intoxicated group revealed, two distinct axon families (Type I and II) as described elsewhere. Total density values of boutons, branching points and segment densities of intoxicated group, decreased 81, 59 and 91% respectively, as compared to the control group (ANOVA two-way, Bonferroni a priori test p<0.05). Altered axonal morphology associated with MeHg, appeared early in the disease (30 days after contamination), revealing new aspects of the neuronal pathology of the methylmercury intoxication in the visual cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Bezerra de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Bioprospecção e Biologia Experimental, Campus de Santarém, Universidade Federal do Pará, Brazil.
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24
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Barboni MTS, da Costa MF, Moura ALDA, Feitosa-Santana C, Gualtieri M, Lago M, Medrado-Faria MDA, Silveira LCDL, Ventura DF. Visual field losses in workers exposed to mercury vapor. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2008; 107:124-31. [PMID: 17719027 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2007.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2007] [Revised: 04/29/2007] [Accepted: 07/09/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Visual field losses associated with mercury (Hg) exposure have only been assessed in patients exposed to methylmercury. Here we evaluate the automated visual field in 35 ex-workers (30 males; 44.20+/-5.92 years) occupationaly exposed to mercury vapor and 34 controls (21 males; 43.29+/-8.33 years). Visual fields were analyzed with the Humphrey Field Analyzer II (model 750i) using two tests: the standard automated perimetry (SAP, white-on-white) and the short wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP, blue-on-yellow) at 76 locations within a 27 degrees central visual field. Results were analyzed as the mean of the sensitivities measured at the fovea, and at five successive concentric rings, of increasing eccentricity, within the central field. Compared to controls, visual field sensitivities of the experimental group measured using SAP were lower for the fovea as well as for all five eccentricity rings (p<0.05). Sensitivities were significantly lower in the SWAP test (p<0.05) for four of the five extra-foveal eccentricity rings; they were not significant for the fovea (p=0.584) or for the 15 degrees eccentricity ring (p=0.965). These results suggest a widespread reduction of sensitivity in both visual field tests. Previous reports in the literature describe moderate to severe concentric constriction of the visual field in subjects with methylmercury intoxication measured manually with the Goldman perimeter. The present results amplify concerns regarding potential medical risks of exposure to environmental mercury sources by demonstrating significant and widespread reductions of visual sensitivity using the more reliable automated perimetry.
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25
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Counter SA, Buchanan LH, Ortega F. Neurocognitive screening of mercury-exposed children of Andean gold miners. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2006; 12:209-14. [PMID: 16967826 DOI: 10.1179/oeh.2006.12.3.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Performance on Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test of visual-spatial reasoning was used to evaluate the effects of mercury (Hg) exposure on 73 Andean children aged 5 to 11 years (mean: 8.4) living in the Nambija and Portovelo gold mining areas of Ecuador, where Hg is widely used in amalgamation. Mean levels of Hg found in blood (Hg(B)), urine (Hg(U)), and hair (Hg(H)) samples were 5.1 microg/L (SD: 2.4; range: 1-10 microg/L), 13.3 microg/L (SD: 25.9; range: 1-166 microg/L), and 8.5 microg/g (SD: 22.8; range: 1-135 microg/g), respectively. Of the children in the Nambija area 67-84.9% had abnormal RCPM standard scores (i.e., < or = 25%tile), depending on the test norm used in the data analysis. Higher standard scores for Peruvian (t = 4.77; p = < 0.0001) and Puerto Rican (t = 4.51; p = < 0.0001) norms than for U.S. norms suggested a linguistic influence. No difference was found between Peruvian and Puerto Rican norms (t = 0.832; p = < 0.408), which showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.915, p = < 0.0001). Children with abnormal Hg(B) and Hg(H) levels had significantly lower scores on the RCPM subtest B than did children with nontoxic Hg levels (t = -2.16; p = < 0.034). These results suggest that a substantial number of Hg-exposed children in the Nambija study area have neurocognitive deficits in visual-spatial reasoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Allen Counter
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, The Biological Laboratories, 16 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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26
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Burbacher TM, Grant KS, Mayfield DB, Gilbert SG, Rice DC. Prenatal methylmercury exposure affects spatial vision in adult monkeys. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2006; 208:21-8. [PMID: 16164958 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2005.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2004] [Revised: 01/19/2005] [Accepted: 01/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Decades of research have demonstrated that exposure to methylmercury (MeHg), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, can have both early and long-term neurobehavioral consequences in exposed offspring. The present study assessed visual functioning in adult macaque monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) exposed in utero to 0, 50, 70, or 90 microg/kg/day of MeHg hydroxide. Twenty-one full-term, normal birth weight offspring (9 controls, 12 exposed) were tested at approximately 11-14.5 years of age on a visual contrast sensitivity task. A forced-choice tracking procedure was utilized with spatial frequencies of 1, 4, 10, and 20 cycles per degree of visual angle. On each test session, a single spatial frequency was presented across five levels of contrast, each differing by 3 dB. Methylmercury-exposed monkeys exhibited reduced contrast sensitivity thresholds, particularly at the higher spatial frequencies. The degree of visual impairment was not related to MeHg body burden or clearance and almost half of the exposed animals were unimpaired. The results from this study demonstrate that chronic in utero MeHg exposure, at subclinical levels, is associated with permanent adverse effects on spatial vision in adult monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Burbacher
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, Box 357234, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Eto K, Yasutake A, Korogi Y, Akima M, Shimozeki T, Tokunaga H, Kuwana T, Kaneko Y. Methylmercury poisoning in common marmosets--MRI findings and peripheral nerve lesions. Toxicol Pathol 2002; 30:723-34. [PMID: 12512874 DOI: 10.1080/01926230290166814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Common marmosets were used as model animals for methylmercury (MeHg) poisoning. Six marmosets were given MeHg of 5 ppm Hg in drinking water. The animals were divided into 3 groups of 2 each. The first group was examined for acute symptomatic MeHg poisoning. They were given MeHg for 70 and 90 days, respectively, to manifest severe symptoms. The second group was sacrificed after 38 days of MeHg exposure, when they had acute-subclinical MeHg poisoning. The third group of animals was exposed for 21 days, and then observed for 2.5 years without MeHg exposure. One of them showed typical symptoms of MeHg poisoning after MeHg exposure had ended, but the other one showed only slight symptoms without ataxia. This experiment demonstrated that MeHg causes pathological changes in neural tissues including the peripheral nerves in common marmosets. Furthermore, common marmosets were found to show MeHg-induced pathological changes similar to those in humans in the cerebrum and cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komyo Eto
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Ministry of the Environment, Minamata City, Kumamoto, Japan.
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