Toxic responses of different organs following occupational exposure of employees of a plant to ethylene oxide

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess possible toxic response(s) associated with occupational exposure to ethylene oxide (EO) in a local plant, producing disposable syringes, where the chemical was used as a sterilant. A total of 40 exposed and 47 unexposed employees were interviewed and standard respiratory symptom questionnaire as well as a questionnaire pertaining to symptoms of intoxication with EO was administered to them. Furthermore, atmospheric concentration of EO was measured by grab sampling using gas detector tubes. Additionally, parameters of pulmonary function were measured and blood chemistry test was performed. Average atmospheric concentration of EO was calculated to be 2.2 mgm⁻³ (1.24 ppm). Respiratory, dermal, visual, and neurologic symptoms in exposed workers were significantly more prevalent and reversible decrements were noted in some parameters of their pulmonary function. Conversely, results of biochemical tests were similar in both groups. Our findings indicate that exposure to EO results in significant decreases in some parameters of pulmonary function. However, this effect is acute, temporary, and reversible. Additionally, hematotoxic, hepatotoxic, and nephrotoxic outcomes were not evident, although, dermal, visual, and neurologic symptoms were observed.

Keywords:

• ethylene oxide
• occupational exposure
• respiratory disorders
• intoxication symptoms

Acknowledgments

Funding through the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Vice Chancellor for Research Affairs, contract no. 86-3896, partially supported these investigations. The authors sincerely thank Ms Somayeh Rezaei and Ms Fatemeh Rezaei for their assistance.