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Damiani G, Alessandrini M, Caccamo D, Cormano A, Guzzi G, Mazzatenta A, Micarelli A, Migliore A, Piroli A, Bianca M, Tapparo O, Pigatto PDM. Italian Expert Consensus on Clinical and Therapeutic Management of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111294. [PMID: 34769816 PMCID: PMC8582949 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a multisystem, recurrent, environmental disorder that flares in response to different exposures (i.e., pesticides, solvents, toxic metals and molds) under the threshold limit value (TLV) calculated for age and gender in the general population. MCS is a syndrome characterized by cutaneous, allergic, gastrointestinal, rheumatological, endocrinological, cardiological and neurological signs and symptoms. We performed a systematic review of the literature to summarize the current clinical and therapeutic evidence and then oriented an eDelphi consensus. Four main research domains were identified (diagnosis, treatment, hospitalization and emergency) and discussed by 10 experts and an MCS patient. Thus, the first Italian MCS consensus had the double aim: (a) to improve MCS knowledge among healthcare workers and patients by standardizing the clinical and therapeutic management to MCS patients; and (b) to improve and shed light on MCS misconceptions not supported by evidence-based medicine (EBM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Damiani
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Clinical Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy
- PhD Degree Program in Pharmacological Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Alessandrini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniela Caccamo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental Sciences, & Morpho-Functional Imaging, Polyclinic Hospital University, 98124 Messina, Italy;
| | - Andrea Cormano
- International Society of Doctors for Environment, 82100 Benevento, Italy;
| | - Gianpaolo Guzzi
- Italian Association for Metals and Biocompatibility Research—A.I.R.M.E.B., 20122 Milan, Italy;
| | - Andrea Mazzatenta
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, ‘G. d’Annunzio’ University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Micarelli
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, 39100 Bolzano, Italy;
- ITER Center for Balance and Rehabilitation Research (ICBRR), 02032 Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Migliore
- Department of Internal Medicine, Unit of Rheumatology, San Pietro Fatebenefratelli Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy;
| | - Alba Piroli
- Department of MeSVA, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy;
| | | | | | - Paolo Daniele Maria Pigatto
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Clinical Dermatology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, 20161 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-02-5031-9971
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Food Implications in Central Sensitization Syndromes. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124106. [PMID: 33352747 PMCID: PMC7766296 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) are some of the central sensitization syndromes (CSSs). The complexity of their diagnosis, the high interindividual heterogeneity and the existence of multi-syndromic patients requires a multifaceted treatment. The scientific literature is contradictory regarding the role of food in CSS, and evidence on the role of nutrition in MCS is particularly scarce. This review consists in gathering information about the current status of dietary recommendations (i.e., special dietary interventions, the role of additives, presence of micronutrient deficiencies, nutritional supplements and elimination of other nutrients and substances) and discussing the scientific evidence in depth to shed light on appropriate nutritional treatment managements for CSS patients. Current indications show that dietary modifications may vastly improve the patients’ quality of life at a low cost. We suggest personalized treatment, taking into consideration the severity of the disease symptoms, quality of life, coexistence with other diseases, pharmacological treatment, changing clinical characteristics, nutritional status, energy requirements and food tolerances, among others, as the best ways to tailor specific dietary interventions. These approaches will partially overcome the lack of scientific and clinical research on MSC. Patients should also be advised on the serious consequences of following dietary guidelines without a dietitian’s and clinician’s supervision.
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Ferreira AO, Polonini HC, Dijkers ECF. Postulated Adjuvant Therapeutic Strategies for COVID-19. J Pers Med 2020; 10:E80. [PMID: 32764275 PMCID: PMC7565841 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10030080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of COVID-19 patients is still growing exponentially worldwide due to the high transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Therapeutic agents currently under investigation are antiviral drugs, vaccines, and other adjuvants that could relieve symptoms or improve the healing process. In this review, twelve therapeutic agents that could play a role in prophylaxis or improvement of the COVID-19-associated symptoms (as add-on substances) are discussed. Agents were identified based on their known pharmacologic mechanism of action in viral and/or nonviral fields and are postulated to interact with one or more of the seven known mechanisms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus: (i) regulation of the immune system; (ii) virus entrance in the cell; (iii) virus replication; (iv) hyperinflammation; (v) oxidative stress; (vi) thrombosis; and (vii) endotheliitis. Selected agents were immune transfer factor (oligo- and polypeptides from porcine spleen, ultrafiltered at <10 kDa; Imuno TF®), anti-inflammatory natural blend (Uncaria tomentosa, Endopleura uchi and Haematoccocus pluvialis; Miodesin®), zinc, selenium, ascorbic acid, cholecalciferol, ferulic acid, spirulina, N-acetylcysteine, glucosamine sulfate potassium hydrochloride, trans-resveratrol, and maltodextrin-stabilized orthosilicic acid (SiliciuMax®). This review gives the scientific background on the hypothesis that these therapeutic agents can act in synergy in the prevention and improvement of COVID-19-associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson O. Ferreira
- Fagron. Lichtenauerlaan 182, 3062 Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (H.C.P.); (E.C.F.D.)
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Dantoft TM, Skovbjerg S, Andersson L, Claeson AS, Lind N, Nordin S, Brix S. Inflammatory Mediator Profiling of n-butanol Exposed Upper Airways in Individuals with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143534. [PMID: 26599866 PMCID: PMC4657963 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a chronic condition characterized by reports of recurrent symptoms in response to low level exposure to various chemical substances. Recent findings suggests that dysregulation of the immune system may play a role in MCS pathophysiology. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to examine baseline and low dose n-butanol-induced upper airway inflammatory response profiles in MCS subjects versus healthy controls. METHOD Eighteen participants with MCS and 18 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Epithelial lining fluid was collected from the nasal cavity at three time points: baseline, within 15 minutes after being exposed to 3.7 ppm n-butanol in an exposure chamber and four hours after exposure termination. A total of 19 cytokines and chemokines were quantified. Furthermore, at baseline and during the exposure session, participants rated the perceived intensity, valence and levels of symptoms and autonomic recordings were obtained. RESULTS The physiological and psychophysical measurements during the n-butanol exposure session verified a specific response in MCS individuals only. However, MCS subjects and healthy controls displayed similar upper airway inflammatory mediator profiles (P>0.05) at baseline. Likewise, direct comparison of mediator levels in the MCS group and controls after n-butanol exposure revealed no significant group differences. CONCLUSION We demonstrate no abnormal upper airway inflammatory mediator levels in MCS subjects before or after a symptom-eliciting exposure to low dose n-butanol, implying that upper airways of MCS subjects are functionally intact at the level of cytokine and chemokine production and secretory capacity. This suggests that previous findings of increased cytokine plasma levels in MCS are unlikely to be caused by systemic priming via excessive upper airway inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Meinertz Dantoft
- Danish Research Centre for Chemical Sensitivities, Copenhagen University Hospital, Gentofte, Denmark
- Center for Biological Sequence Analysis, Department of Systems Biology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- * E-mail: ;
| | - Sine Skovbjerg
- Research Centre for Prevention and Health, Capital Region, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linus Andersson
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Occupational and Public Health Sciences, University of Gävle, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Nina Lind
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Steven Nordin
- Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Susanne Brix
- Center for Biological Sequence Analysis, Department of Systems Biology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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Gibson PR, Vogel VM. Sickness-related dysfunction in persons with self-reported multiple chemical sensitivity at four levels of severity. J Clin Nurs 2009; 18:72-81. [PMID: 19120734 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2702.2008.02439.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIM To examine quality of life outcome for persons who self-report chemical sensitivity, often referred to as multiple chemical sensitivity. BACKGROUND Multiple chemical sensitivity is poorly understood with few providers specialising in its treatment. This lack of treatment and the ubiquity of chemicals engender severe life impacts such as job loss, financial loss, social isolation and even homelessness for persons who experience these sensitivities. DESIGN Survey. METHOD We examined chemical incitants, symptoms and sickness-related behavioural dysfunction as measured by the Sickness Impact Profile in 254 persons self-identified with multiple chemical sensitivity. RESULTS Chemicals rated as causing the most symptomatology in respondents were pesticide, formaldehyde, fresh paint, new carpet, diesel exhaust, perfume and air fresheners. The five highest rated symptoms in this sample were tiredness/lethargy, difficulty concentrating, muscle aches, memory difficulties and long-term fatigue. Overall mean Sickness Impact Profile score was 25.25%, showing serious impairment, with the most serious dysfunction in the categories of work (55.36%), alertness behaviour (53.45%) and recreation and pastimes (45.20%). CONCLUSION Multiple chemical sensitivity is an important health care issue because it often includes serious dysfunction, is poorly understood by providers and poses extensive financial and treatment obstacles for those who experience it. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Persons with multiple chemical sensitivity seek medical treatment in a variety of contexts and informed providers can both avoid iatrogenic harm due to medical exposures and provide any possible treatment for the chemical sensitivities. Understanding the impact of the health condition is crucial to communicate with and treat persons who experience the sensitivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Reed Gibson
- Department of Psychology, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA 28807, USA.
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Hoover DR, Donnay A, Mitchell CS, Ziem G, Rose NR, Sabath DE, Yurkow EJ, Nakamura R, Vogt RF, Waxdal M, Margolick JB. Reproducibility of immunological tests used to assess multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome. CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY IMMUNOLOGY 2003; 10:1029-36. [PMID: 14607863 PMCID: PMC262428 DOI: 10.1128/cdli.10.6.1029-1036.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2003] [Revised: 04/10/2003] [Accepted: 07/02/2003] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Whether persons with multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome (MCS) have immunological abnormalities is unknown. To assess the reliability of selected immunological tests that have been hypothesized to be associated with MCS, replicate blood samples from 19 healthy volunteers, 15 persons diagnosed with MCS, and 11 persons diagnosed with autoimmune disease were analyzed in five laboratories for expression of four T-cell surface activation markers (CD25, CD26, CD38, and HLA-DR) and in four laboratories for autoantibodies (to smooth muscle, thyroid antigens, and myelin). For T-cell activation markers, the intralaboratory reproducibility was very good, with 90% of the replicates analyzed in the same laboratory differing by < or = 3%. Interlaboratory differences were statistically significant for all T-cell subsets except CD4+ cells, ranging from minor to eightfold for CD25+ subsets. Within laboratories, the date of analysis was significantly associated with the values for all cellular activation markers. Although reproducibility of autoantibodies could not be precisely assessed due to the rarity of abnormal results, there were inconsistencies across laboratories. The effect of shipping on all measurements, while sometimes statistically significant, was very small. These results support the reliability of fresh and shipped samples for detecting large (but perhaps not small) differences between groups of donors in the T-cell subsets tested. When comparing markers that are not well standardized, it may be important to distribute samples from different study groups evenly over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald R Hoover
- Department of Statistics and Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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Watanabe M, Tonori H, Aizawa Y. Multiple chemical sensitivity and idiopathic environmental intolerance (part two). Environ Health Prev Med 2003; 7:273-82. [PMID: 21432396 PMCID: PMC2723466 DOI: 10.1007/bf02908886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2002] [Accepted: 09/12/2002] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity/idiopathic environmental intolerance (MCS/IEI) is a commonly used diagnostic term for a group of symptoms without apparent organic basis. The symptoms are characteristic of dysfunction in multiple organ systems. They wax and wane fluctuate according to exposure to low levels of chemical agents in the patient's environment, and sometimes begin after a distinct environmental change or injury such an industrial accident or chemical introduced after remodeling. Although traditional medical organizations have not agreed on a definition for this syndrome, it is being increasingly recognized and makes up an increasing percentage of the caseload at occupational/environmental medical clinics.Part two of this review article discusses diagnosis, clinical examination, long-term follow up of MCS/IEI, and the role of physicians, research on odor and treatment, diseases with similar symptoms, and further research regarding MCS/IEI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyasu Watanabe
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, 228-8555, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
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Watanabe M, Tonori H, Aizawa Y. Multiple chemical sensitivity and idiopathic environmental intolerance (part one). Environ Health Prev Med 2003; 7:264-72. [PMID: 21432395 PMCID: PMC2723465 DOI: 10.1007/bf02908885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2002] [Accepted: 09/12/2002] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple chemical sensitivity/idiopathic environmental intolerance (MCS/IEI) is a commonly used diagnostic term for a group of symptoms. These symptoms have been described and commented on for more than 15 years in the USA. Recently, it has also been observed in Japan. The main features of this syndrome are multiple symptoms involving in multiple organ systems that are precipitated by a variety of chemical substances with relapses and exacerbation under certain conditions when exposed to very low levels which do not affect the population at large. There are no laboratory markers or specific investigative findings. Although traditional medical organizations have not agreed on a definition for this syndrome due to the lack of obvious evidence to demonstrate the existence of these symptoms, it is being increasingly recognized. It constitutes an increasing percentage of the caseload at occupational/environmental medical clinics.Part one of this review article discusses pathophysiological theories, substances which cause symptoms, prevalence in the general and specific populations, past history and family history, and clinical symptoms of MCS/IEI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyasu Watanabe
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, 228-8555 Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hideki Tonori
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, 228-8555 Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Aizawa
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, 228-8555 Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
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WATANABE M, TONORI H, AIZAWA Y. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (Part One). Environ Health Prev Med 2003. [DOI: 10.1265/ehpm.2003.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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WATANABE M, TONORI H, AIZAWA Y. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (Part Two). Environ Health Prev Med 2003. [DOI: 10.1265/ehpm.2003.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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Black DW, Okiishi C, Schlosser S. A nine-year follow-up of people diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivities. PSYCHOSOMATICS 2000; 41:253-61. [PMID: 10849458 DOI: 10.1176/appi.psy.41.3.253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The authors assessed self-reported health status and clinical symptoms in people reporting multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) at a 9-year follow-up interview using structured and semistructured instruments and self-report questionnaires. Of the original sample, 18 people (69%) consented to an interview. By use of the best estimate diagnostic method, 15 subjects (83%) met DSM-IV criteria for a lifetime mood disorder, 10 (56%) for a lifetime anxiety disorder, and 10 (56%) for a lifetime somatoform disorder. None of the subjects met the criteria for a substance use disorder (current or lifetime). The Illness Behavior Questionnaire and the Symptom Check-list-90-Revised results showed little change from 1988 and remained significantly different from the control group on many subscales. The authors conclude that the subjects remain strongly committed to the diagnosis of MCS, and although improved since their original interview, many remain symptomatic and continue to report ongoing lifestyle changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Black
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242-1000, USA
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Black DW, Doebbeling BN, Voelker MD, Clarke WR, Woolson RF, Barrett DH, Schwartz DA. Quality of life and health-services utilization in a population-based sample of military personnel reporting multiple chemical sensitivities. J Occup Environ Med 1999; 41:928-33. [PMID: 10529949 DOI: 10.1097/00043764-199910000-00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We sought to assess quality of life and health-services utilization variables in persons with symptoms suggestive of multiple chemical sensitivity/idiopathic environmental intolerance (MCS/IEI) among military personnel. We conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey of a population-based sample of Persian Gulf War (PGW) veterans from Iowa and a comparison group of PGW-era military personnel. A complex sample survey design was used, selecting subjects from four domains: PGW active duly, PGW National Guard/Reserve, non-PGW active duty, and non-PGW National Guard/Reserve. Each domain was substratified by age, gender, race, rank, and military branch. The criteria for MCS/IEI were developed by expert consensus and from the medical literature. In the total sample, 169 subjects (4.6%) of the 3695 who participated (76% of those eligible) met our criteria for MCS/IEI. Persons who met the criteria for MCS/IEI more often reported the following than did other subjects: more than 12 days in bed due to disability, Veteran's Affairs disability status, Veteran's Affairs disability compensation, medical disability, and unemployment. MCS/IEI cases also had higher outpatient rates of physician visits, emergency department visits, and inpatient hospital stays. Subjects who met the criteria for MCS/IEI more often reported impaired functioning on each Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form subscale, compared with those who did not meet the criteria. We concluded that although the diagnosis of MCS/IEI remains controversial, the persons who met our criteria for the disorder are functionally impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Black
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242-1000, USA
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Gibson PR. Hope in multiple chemical sensitivity: social support and attitude towards healthcare delivery as predictors of hope. J Clin Nurs 1999; 8:275-83. [PMID: 10578750 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2702.1999.00238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This paper examines hope, as measured by the Herth Hope Scale, and its predictors in a sample of 305 people self-identified with multiple chemical sensitivity. The sample had relatively low levels of hope with scores unrelated to gender, severity or length of illness, income loss as a result of illness, or reported iatrogenic harm. Hope scores were positively correlated with perceived social support, having found personal growth through illness, age, reported level of supportiveness from a partner, an improved course of illness and level of reported safety of the home environment in regard to chemical exposures. Negative correlations were found with attitude toward healthcare delivery, fatigue and reported abuse/ostracism from family members other than partner. Social support, Healthcare Orientation, growth through illness, fatigue and age predicted hope scores accounted for 55% of the variance. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Gibson
- James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA
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Black DW, Okiishi C, Gabel J, Schlosser S. Psychiatric illness in the first-degree relatives of persons reporting multiple chemical sensitivities. Toxicol Ind Health 1999; 15:410-4. [PMID: 10416293 DOI: 10.1177/074823379901500315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) syndrome is characterized by unexplained physical and psychiatric complaints attributed by patients and some of their physicians to low-level chemical exposures. In this study, we interviewed 15 subjects with MCS and 21 controls about their first-degree relatives using the Family History-Research Diagnostic Criteria (FH-RDC). Subjects with MCS were more likely than controls to report their relatives to have major depression, alcoholism, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. They were also likely to have past suicide attempts, and to have received some form of psychiatric treatment (hospitalization, medication or electroconvulsive therapy, or counseling). Nearly 30% of the relatives of subjects with MCS were reported to have MCS themselves. Possible reasons for the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W Black
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242-1000, USA
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