title: Human exposure assessment and relief from neuropsychiatric symptoms: case study of a hairdresser.
abstract: Human exposure assessment and the results of implementing 'precautionary avoidance' suggested a relationship between a hairdresser's neuropsychiatric symptoms and occupational exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals. A variety of investigations in response to patient complaints of depression, emotional instability and various physical symptoms revealed no objective abnormality; the CH2OPD2 mnemonic (community, home, hobbies, occupation, personal habits, diet and drugs) recommended by the Ontario College of Family Physicians was used as a first-line screening tool to assess potential environmental exposure to toxins. After occupational leave of absence, the patient reported cessation of symptoms. Environmental causes for familiar medical problems are frequently undiagnosed; it is recommended that, where appropriate, a screening tool for evaluation of environmental exposure to toxics be incorporated into primary care assessment and management of patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Canada. sgenuis@incentre.net
authors.forename: Stephen J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Genuis
authors.forename: Shelagh K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Genuis
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001461:Barbering; D001505:Beauty Culture; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D005260:Female; D006203:Hair Preparations / Q000633:toxicity*; D006801:Humans; D008487:Medical History Taking; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000517:prevention & control; D011320:Primary Health Care
chemical_list: D006203:Hair Preparations