[Multiple chemical sensitivity, a well-defined illness?].
Some people react to smells or chemicals at levels far below toxicological thresholds with nonspecific symptoms, fear and social isolation. They may be diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivity. There is no empirical evidence indicating that this condition is explained by toxicological mechanisms, even though a number of theories have been proposed. The authors of this review conclude that this is a functional condition. These patients need information and treatment in accordance with this fact. Instead of being advised how to avoid exposure to chemicals, they should be properly trained in appropriate confrontation with the chemicals encountered in everyday life.
Arhus Universitetshospital, Arbejdsmedicinsk Klinik, Arhus C. hkols@as.aaa.dk
Henrik A
HA
Kolstad
Martin
M
Silberschmidt
Jesper Bo
JB
Nielsen
Kai
K
Osterberg
Johan Hviid
JH
Andersen
Jens Peter E
JP
Bonde
Per
P
Fink
D006801:Humans; D018777:Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D009812:Odorants; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis; D012903:Smell