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Choi YH, Lee JY, Moon KW. Exposure to volatile organic compounds and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is associated with the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Korean adolescents: Korea National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) 2015-2017. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 251:114508. [PMID: 36621033 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most frequent liver diseases among adolescents. Several animal studies have suggested that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) increase NAFLD risk. However, few epidemiological studies have confirmed the association between VOCs, PAHs and NAFLD in the general adolescent population. Therefore, we analyzed 798 adolescents from the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS), 2015-2017, to examine the associations of urinary metabolites of VOCs and PAHs with serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity and NAFLD prevalence. We performed linear regression, logistic regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) to evaluate the association of urinary VOCs and PAHs metabolites with ALT levels and NAFLD prevalence. After adjusting for all covariates, urinary benzylmercapturic acid and 2-hydroxyfluorene levels were found to increase ALT activity and NAFLD prevalence. Additionally, the BKMR analyses showed a significantly positive overall effect on ALT activity and NAFLD prevalence with urinary concentrations of VOCs and PAHs metabolites, with 2-hydroxyfluorene as the biggest contributor. Our study suggests that exposure to low-level VOCs and PAHs may have a detrimental effect on NAFLD risk in adolescents. Given the increasing prevalence of NAFLD in adolescents, future cohort studies are confirmed to comprehend the effect of these chemicals on NAFLD risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Hee Choi
- Department of Health and Safety Convergence Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Ju-Yeon Lee
- Department of Health and Safety Convergence Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea
| | - Kyong Whan Moon
- BK21 FOUR R&E Center for Learning Health System, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea; Department of Health and Environmental Science, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, South Korea.
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2
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Sakhvidi MJZ, Zarei A, Hachesu VR, Zolfaghari A. Evaluating the relationship between the respiratory exposure to the benzene with the primary damages of deoxyribonucleic acid and total antioxidant capacity in one of the oil companies in Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:48340-48346. [PMID: 35187629 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Benzene is a carcinogenic chemical substance which causes the injuries and damages through producing the free radicals in DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and the antioxidants are the agents which reduce the impacts of DNA damages by inhibiting the free radicals. This study was conducted aiming at determination of primary damages of DNA and level of plasma oxidative stress markers resulting from the respiratory exposure to the benzene found in petroleum compounds among the workers at loading platforms of a petroleum products distribution center. This study was an analytical (case control) research conducted among the workers in a working shift serving at the loading platforms of petroleum products. The exposure group included the workers with a history of contact with benzene and the control group was composed of the persons with no history of exposure to benzene. To investigate the level of the personnel's exposure to benzene, NIOSH-1501 method was utilized; to analyze the samples taken from the air, GC mass (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) was applied; and to determine the average of DNA primary damages, comet assay was used. Total antioxidant capacity was determined by a photometric method. Results indicated that tail length (TL), tail density (TD), tail momentum (TM), percentage of tail in the DNA (%DNA), and %TAC in control group were 78.59, 8.35, 1.20, 10.05, and 25.58 and in the exposure group were 59.21, 75.74, 57.74, 3.5, and 16.58, respectively. The previously mentioned results showed a decrease in the TL, %DNA, and %TAC values among the workers already exposed to benzene while an increase in the TD and TM values of the same group compared to the control non-exposed group. In comparing the averages between two studied groups, all study variables had statistically meaningful difference (p < 0.05). More studies are recommended to be conducted on using the methods which identify the special places of breakage and damage in DNA chain due to the exposure to benzene and consequently prevent the complications and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdorreza Zarei
- Occupational Health Department, Health Faculty, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Vida Rezaei Hachesu
- Occupational Health Department, School of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Zolfaghari
- University of Tehran, PIHO (Petroleum Industry Health Organization), Isfahan, Iran.
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Wahlang B, Gripshover TC, Gao H, Krivokhizhina T, Keith RJ, Sithu ID, Rai SN, Bhatnagar A, McClain CJ, Srivastava S, Cave MC. Associations Between Residential Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds and Liver Injury Markers. Toxicol Sci 2021; 185:50-63. [PMID: 34668566 PMCID: PMC8714366 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Occupational exposures to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been associated with numerous health complications including steatohepatitis and liver cancer. However, the potential impact of environmental/residential VOC exposures on liver health and function is largely unknown. To address this knowledge gap, the objective of this cross-sectional study is to investigate associations between VOCs and liver injury biomarkers in community residents. Subjects were recruited from six Louisville neighborhoods, and informed consent was obtained. Exposure biomarkers included 16 creatinine-adjusted urinary metabolites corresponding to 12 parent VOCs. Serological disease biomarkers measured included cytokertain-18 (K18 M65 and M30), liver enzymes, and direct bilirubin. Associations between exposure and disease biomarkers were assessed using generalized linear models. Smoking status was confirmed through urinary cotinine levels. The population comprised of approximately 60% females and 40% males; White persons accounted 78% of the population; with more nonsmokers (n = 413) than smokers (n = 250). When compared with nonsmokers, males (45%) and Black persons (26%) were more likely to be smokers. In the overall population, metabolites of acrolein, acrylonitrile, acrylamide, 1,3-butadiene, crotonaldehyde, styrene, and xylene were positively associated with alkaline phosphatase. These associations persisted in smokers, with the exception of crotonaldehyde, and addition of N,N-dimethylformamide and propylene oxide metabolites. Although no positive associations were observed for K18 M30, the benzene metabolite was positively associated with bilirubin, irrespective of smoking status. Taken together, the results demonstrated that selected VOCs were positively associated with liver injury biomarkers. These findings will enable better risk assessment and identification of populations vulnerable to liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banrida Wahlang
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Tyler C Gripshover
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Hong Gao
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Tatiana Krivokhizhina
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Rachel J Keith
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Israel D Sithu
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Shesh N Rai
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, the School of Public Health and Information Sciences, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Facility, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Aruni Bhatnagar
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Craig J McClain
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Hepatobiology and Toxicology Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Alcohol Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Sanjay Srivastava
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Mathew C Cave
- Superfund Research Center, the University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Department of Medicine, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Envirome Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, the University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- The Hepatobiology and Toxicology Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
- Alcohol Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
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Umicevic N, Kotur-Stevuljevic J, Paleksic V, Djukic-Cosic D, Miljakovic EA, Djordjevic AB, Curcic M, Bulat Z, Antonijevic B. Liver function alterations among workers in the shoe industry due to combined low-level exposure to organic solvents. Drug Chem Toxicol 2021; 45:1907-1914. [PMID: 33715556 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2021.1894703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the potential hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxic, and hematotoxic effects of simultaneous occupational low-level exposure of shoe workers to a mixture of organic solvents. The study included 16 male and 55 female workers and non-exposed subjects (n = 60) in the control group. Along with a standard sets of hematological, liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), bilirubin total, bilirubin direct, blood glucose, urea, and creatinine were analyzed in all participants. Indoor air quality was monitored using a Gasmet Dx - 4000 multi-component analyzer. Despite the concentration levels of individual chemicals in shoe production units were below the permissible limits, the equivalent exposure (Em) values calculated based on the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) occupational exposure limits were higher than 1. Statistically significant increase of biochemical parameters (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin) was obtained in exposed workers of both genders compared with controls (p < 0.001). Calculated liver damage risk scores were significantly higher in both females and males compared with controls (p < 0.001). The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that direct bilirubin was the most important predictor of organic solvent mixture exposure in the studied group of workers. These results suggest that combined exposure to organic solvents even at low concentrations may lead to hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Umicevic
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Jelena Kotur-Stevuljevic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Vesna Paleksic
- Institute of Occupational and Sports Health in Republic of Srpska, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Danijela Djukic-Cosic
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Evica Antonijevic Miljakovic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Buha Djordjevic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Marijana Curcic
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Zorica Bulat
- Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
| | - Biljana Antonijevic
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,Department of Toxicology "Akademik Danilo Soldatović", Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Beograd, Serbia
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5
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Blood plasma levels of biomarkers of liver status and lipid profile among nail technicians occupationally exposed to low-level mixture of volatile organic compounds. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2020; 94:487-494. [PMID: 33156392 PMCID: PMC8032578 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-020-01599-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nail technicians (NTs) are exposed to a low-level mixture of volatile organic solvents (VOCs), yet the health hazards related to such exposure are unknown. This study thus aimed to compare the blood plasma levels of selected biomarkers related to liver status and lipid profile among occupationally exposed NTs and unexposed controls. Associations between out-of-normal-range levels of such biomarkers and occupational exposure to VOCs mixture have also been investigated. METHODS The study enrolled 145 female NTs and 152 unexposed controls. Biochemical analyses were performed using spectrophotometric assays and obtained data were analyzed using general linear model and Poisson regression modelling adjusted to multiple confounders. RESULTS Compared to controls, NTs presented significantly increased plasma activities of ALT (2.04 ± 0.63 ln-U/l vs. 1.25 ± 0.71 ln-U/l; p < 0.0001) and AST (2.73 ± 0.25 ln-U/l vs. 2.08 ± 0.95 ln-U/l; p < 0.0001), and significantly increased plasma levels of TG (4.38 ± 0.53 ln-mg/dl vs. 4.21 ± 0.42 ln-mg/dl; p < 0.05) and TC/HDL ratio (1.18 ± 0.36 vs. 1.02 ± 0.27; p < 0.0005). Plasma levels of HDL were significantly lower among NTs (4.02 ± 0.29 ln-mg/dl vs. 4.21 ± 0.26 ln-mg/dl; p < 0.0001). Moreover, NTs were found to present significantly increased risk of occurrence of clinically relevant plasma HDL levels below 3.91 ln-mg/dl (i.e., 50 mg/dl; RR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.07-2.32, p < 0.05), as well as increased risk of clinically relevant TC/HDL ratio above the normal range limit of 3.5 (RR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.19-2.35, p < 0.005), as compared to unexposed controls. CONCLUSION Nail technicians are subject to adverse changes in selected plasma biomarkers related to liver functions, some of which may be of clinical relevance.
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Salehpour S, Amani R, Nili-Ahmadabadi A. Volatile Organic Compounds as a Preventive Health Challenge in the Petrochemical Industries. Int J Prev Med 2019; 10:194. [PMID: 31772726 PMCID: PMC6868646 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_495_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to assess the effects of long-term exposure to VOCs on employees' clinical parameters in one of the main petroleum centers in Iran. Methods In this case-control study, 80 operational and administrative employees with 8-15 years of work experience were considered as the case and control groups. Liver function was evaluated by measuring serum alanine transaminase (ALT) activity and lipid profile was measured. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to analyze the VOCs levels at the workplace. Results There were increased levels of serum ALT (P = 0.003), triglycerides (P = 0.015), total cholesterol (P = 0.003), and LDL-C (P = 0.010) among the operational staffs compared to the administrative staffs. Assessment of the relationship between worksite pollutants and ALT levels revealed that there were significant positive relationship between benzene (r = 0.45, P = 0.004) and styrene (r = 0.37, P = 0.034) with increased ALT concentrations. Conclusions VOC exposure could be contributed to reduced liver function and impaired lipid profile. Therefore, proper preventive strategies seem to be necessary for reducing hazardous exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Salehpour
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Islamic Azad University, Shahreza Branch, Shahreza, Iran
| | - Reza Amani
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amir Nili-Ahmadabadi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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7
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Could fibrinogen and hsCRP be useful for assessing personal risk in workers exposed to a mixture of ultrafine particles and organic solvents? REV ROMANA MED LAB 2018. [DOI: 10.2478/rrlm-2018-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose: Our study focuses on elucidating if two common inflammatory biomarkers, easily performed in any laboratory - high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), as well as fibrinogen - could be used to assess the personal health risk of workers exposed to a complex occupational exposure to ultrafine particles (UFP) and a mixture of organic solvents. Methods: To assess the inflammatory response on the body, laboratory determinations were performed by testing the serum levels of hsCRP and fibrinogen, in exposed and unexposed groups. Results: There are no statistically significant differences for hsCRPs (p-0.25), medians were similar in groups. The mean values of fibrinogen in the three groups were: in the workers group (1st group): 346.2 mg/dl, in the office staff group (2nd group): 328.7 mg/dl, and in the control group (3rd group): 284.8 mg/dl, with significant differences between 1st group vs 3rd group and between 2nd group vs 3rd group (p-0.002). UFP levels differ between the groups, as follows: 1st group were exposed to the highest levels, ranging from 48349 to 3404000 part/cm3; 2nd group, ranging from 17371 to 40595 part/cm3; and 3rd group, ranging from 213 to 16255 part/cm3. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that fibrinogen is a useful inflammatory biomarker for exposure to a mixture of UFP and organic solvents. On the other hand, hsCRP is not a useful inflammatory biomarker in occupational exposure to UFP and organic solvents. Further studies are needed to demonstrate the extent to which fibrinogen is more or less influenced by organic solvents or UFP alone.
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8
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Rascu A, Naghi E, Arghir OC, Moise L, Otelea M. Differential diagnosis between occupational chronic intoxication with organic solvents and ethanol abuse by biological markers. Case report and literature review. ARS MEDICA TOMITANA 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/arsm-2016-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Given the occupational exposure to substances contained in petroleum heated to high temperature, cholestatic liver disease, neurological signs and symptoms can occur. We present a case report of a male patient with no tobacco exposure or alcohol use, but with prolonged occupational exposure to petroleum vapours and natural gases like methane, propane butane who developed liver and neurologic disease, in the absence of protective equipment. Delayed diagnosis was established after 9 years of the first symptoms occurrence. Differential diagnosis with alcoholic etiology was considered and biological biomarkers were useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agripina Rascu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Eugenia Naghi
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Laura Moise
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Marina Otelea
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
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D'Andrea MA, Reddy GK. Adverse Health Effects of Benzene Exposure Among Children Following a Flaring Incident at the British Petroleum Refinery in Texas City. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2016; 55:219-27. [PMID: 26269465 DOI: 10.1177/0009922815594358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the health effects of benzene exposure among children from a flaring incident at the British Petroleum (BP) refinery in Texas City, Texas. A total of 899 children (benzene exposed, n = 641 and unexposed, n = 258), aged <17 years, were included. Hematological analysis showed that white blood cell (×10(3)/µL) counts were significantly decreased in the exposed children compared with the unexposed children (7.1 ± 2.2 versus 7.6 ± 2.1, P = .001). Similarly, the hemoglobin (g/dL) levels were decreased significantly in the exposed group compared with the unexposed group (12.7 ± 1.3 vs 13.1 ± 1.5, P = .001). Conversely, platelet (×10(3)/µL) counts were increased significantly in the exposed group compared with the unexposed group (318.6 ± 79.8 versus 266.9 ± 58.8, P = .001). Hepatic enzymes were also significantly elevated among exposed children compared with the unexposed children. These findings suggest that children exposed to benzene are at a higher risk of developing both hepatic and bone marrow-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - G Kesava Reddy
- University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, Houston, TX, USA
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10
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Detrimental Health Effects of Benzene Exposure in Adults After a Flaring Disaster at the BP Refinery Plant in Texas City. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2016; 10:233-9. [PMID: 26880082 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2015.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the adverse effects of benzene exposure in adults from a prolonged flaring disaster at the BP refinery in Texas City, Texas. METHODS Adults aged 18 years and older who had been exposed and unexposed to benzene were included. We reviewed medical charts and compared measures of white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST), and alanine amino transferase (ALT) in exposed and unexposed adults. RESULTS Records from 2213 adults (benzene exposed, n=1826; unexposed, n=387) were reviewed. Benzene-exposed subjects had significantly higher WBC counts (7.9±2.3 vs 6.8±1.6×10(3) per µL, P=0.0000) and platelet counts (270.8±60.9 vs 242.5±53.7×10(3) per µL, P=0.0000) than did the unexposed subjects. Serum creatinine levels were also significantly higher in the exposed group than in the unexposed group (1.0±0.2 vs 0.8±0.2 mg/dL, P=0.000). Serum levels of ALP were significantly higher in the exposed subjects than in the unexposed subjects (82.1±15.6 vs 71.8±8.2 IU/L, P=0.000). Similarly, benzene-exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of AST (26.2±6.4 vs 19.7±5.3 IU/L, P=0.000) and ALT (30.6±10.8 vs 20.9±9.6 IU/L, P=0.000) than in those unexposed to benzene. CONCLUSION Benzene exposure resulted in significant alterations in hematologic and liver profiles in adults.
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11
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D’Andrea MA, Reddy GK. Hematological and hepatic alterations in nonsmoking residents exposed to benzene following a flaring incident at the British petroleum plant in Texas City. Environ Health 2014; 13:115. [PMID: 25526767 PMCID: PMC4298119 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-13-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human exposure to benzene is associated with multiple adverse health effects with an increased risk of developing carcinogenesis. Benzene exposure is known to affect many critical organs including the hematological, hepatic, renal, lung, and cardiac functions. The purpose of this study is to examine the health effects of benzene exposure among nonsmoking subjects from a prolonged flaring incident that occurred at the British petroleum (BP) refinery in the Texas City, Texas. METHODS The study included nonsmoking subjects who had been exposed and unexposed to benzene. Using medical charts, clinical data including white blood cell (WBC) counts, platelet counts, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate amino transferase (AST), and alanine amino transferase (ALT) in nonsmoking subjects exposed to benzene were reviewed and analyzed and compared with unexposed adults. RESULTS A total of 1422 nonsmoking subjects (benzene exposed, n=1093 and unexposed, n=329) were included. Benzene exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of WBC (×10(3) per μL) counts (7.7±2.2 versus 6.8±1.7, P=0.001) and platelet (×10(3) per μL) counts (288.8±59.0 versus 245.3±54.4, P=0.001) compared with the unexposed subjects. The mean serum creatinine (mg/dL) levels were also significantly increased in the benzene exposed group compared with the unexposed group (1.1±0.4 versus 0.8±0.2, P=0.001). Serum levels of ALP (IU/L) was significantly elevated in the benzene exposed subjects compared with the unexposed subjects (87.3±22.6 versus 69.6±16.5, P=0.001). Similarly, benzene exposed subjects had significantly higher levels of AST and ALT compared with those unexposed subjects. CONCLUSION Benzene exposure from the prolonged BP flaring incident caused significant alterations in hematological and liver markers indicating that these nonsmoking residents exposed to refinery chemicals may be at a higher risk of developing hepatic or blood related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A D’Andrea
- University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, 12811 Beamer Road, Houston, 77089 TX USA
| | - G Kesava Reddy
- University Cancer and Diagnostic Centers, 12811 Beamer Road, Houston, 77089 TX USA
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Hady HME, Metwally F, Gendy MFE, Elserougy S, Helmy MA. Serum bile acid as a screening tool in workers occupationally exposed to mixtures of organic solvents. Toxicol Ind Health 2012; 30:645-52. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233712462469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to find out the potential impact of occupational exposure to mixtures of organic solvents on liver function tests. Serum bile acid (BA) was evaluated as a marker of early hepatic derangement and compared to routine liver function tests. The study included two comparable groups: 57 male workers exposed to organic solvents from a paints factory and 59 administrative male controls. Occupational and medical data and serum analysis for liver function parameters (BAs, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total and direct bilirubin) were obtained. Bile acids showed significantly elevated mean levels in the exposed workers compared to the controls (50.2 ± 47.9 and 5.4 ± 2.7 µmol/L, respectively, p < 0.01). Bile acids were elevated in almost all exposed workers (87.7%) but in none of the controls. Bile acids had significant positive correlation with duration of exposure to organic solvents and lifetime hydrocarbon exposure score (HES) ( p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). All other liver function tests exhibited normal mean levels and did not show statistically significant differences between both groups. The performance of BA versus combined liver enzymes is evaluated using receiver–operating characteristic (ROC) curve and likelihood ratios. The area under the curve was significantly high (0.687 > 0.5, p = 0.012) and had optimal decision level (8 µmol/L). Serum BA can be recommended as a screening test for exposure to organic solvents. It can be suggested for follow-up every 1–2 years or accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala Mostafa El Hady
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha, Egypt
| | - Fateheya Metwally
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Fawzy El Gendy
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Benha Faculty of Medicine, Benha, Egypt
| | - Safaa Elserougy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mona Adel Helmy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
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