title: Encephalopathy and vestibulopathy following short-term hydrocarbon exposure.
abstract: Dizziness, headaches, and weakness occurred among three men after short-term hydrocarbon exposure during improper welding procedures in a closed container. Symptoms were related to objective evidence of vestibular and cognitive dysfunction. Symptoms and abnormal test results persisted for 6 to 18 months. Simulation of the accident failed to demonstrate likely exposures except aliphatic hydrocarbons, well within the permissible exposure levels. Short-term exposures to neurotoxins may lead to long-term central nervous system abnormalities.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, Pittsburgh, PA 15261.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Hodgson
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Furman
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ryan
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Durrant
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kern
mesh_terms: D000059:Accidents; D000328:Adult; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D003389:Cranial Nerve Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D006801:Humans; D006838:Hydrocarbons / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D013997:Time Factors; D014724:Vestibular Function Tests; D014725:Vestibular Nerve; D014896:Welding
chemical_list: D006838:Hydrocarbons