University of Toronto case-control study of multiple chemical sensitivity-3: intra-erythrocytic mineral levels.
BACKGROUND
Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) has an estimated American prevalence of 15%, and no consistently abnormal laboratory tests are available to assist in its diagnosis. Some physicians treating MCS patients have observed changes in intra-erythrocytic minerals (IEMs). As co-factors, minerals could influence detoxication of xenobiotics.


OBJECTIVE
To test whether IEM differed comparing MCS cases with controls.


METHODS
A total of 408 women meeting validated inclusion and exclusion criteria for MCS participated in this case-control study.


RESULTS
No statistically significant differences were observed. However, for copper, chromium, magnesium, molybdenum, sulphur and zinc, mean detectable levels were all lower in cases. No dose-response relationships were found.


CONCLUSIONS
IEM measurements do not appear to provide useful diagnostic markers for MCS.
Baines
Cornelia J
CJ
Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. cornelia.baines@utoronto.ca
McKeown-Eyssen
Gail E
GE
Riley
Nicole
N
Marshall
Lynn
L
Jazmaji
Vartouhi
V
D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000737:chemistry*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008875:Middle Aged; D008903:Minerals / Q000032:analysis*; D018777:Multiple Chemical Sensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D009864:Ontario
D008903:Minerals