Original scientific paper
Blood cholinesterase activity in workers exposed to cholinesterases, a ten-year follow-up
K. Wilhelm
; Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
V. Bradamante
; Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The surveillance of workers exposed to anticholinesterase insecticides during their formulation has shown that the use of protective devices at work and observation of the hygienic and sanitary regulations provide a satisfactory protection and reduce significantly the absorption of anticholinesterase insecticides. Our study has confirmed that a beweekly measurement of cholinesterase activity during a period of intense production is the only practicable method for determining the degree of absorption. With this method one can learn in time whether there are workers at risk, and thus prevent the danger of further ab-sorption. Without exception, the workers showing cho1inergic symptoms had their blood cholinesterase inhibited 50% or more. However, complaints from workers were not always related to cholinesterase inhibition. In agricultural workers exposed to insecticides cholinesterase inhibition rarely exceeded ten per cent. In several individuals who showed inhibition up to 40% subjective complaints were present. It appears that long-term exposure to anticholinesterases had no effect on peripheral blood as revealed by blood cell counts.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
159970
URI
Publication date:
14.10.1980.
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