Neurotoxic Effects of Controlled Exposure to a Complex Mixture of Volatile Organic Compounds

摘要

Subjective reactions of discomfort, impaired air quality, irritation of mucosal membranes, and impaired memory have been reported in chemically sensitive subjects during exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in new buildings. 66 normal healthy male subjects aged 18-39 were exposed for 2.75 hrs to a complex VOC mixture at O and 25 mg/cu m. Each subject completed control and exposure sessions at one week intervals in counterbalanced order. Measurements included comfort ratings of eye, nose and throat irritation, symptom questionnaire and computerized behavioral tests. Subjects found the odor of VOCs unpleasant and strong and reported that VOC exposure degraded air quality, increased headache and produced general discomfort. VOC exposure did not affect performance on any behavioral tests. Results indicate that subjective reactions to VOCs are not limited to chemically sensitive individuals since the study population is a subgroup that is probably least likely to be affected by chemical exposure.