More than 100 types of neuropathy exist, each with differing symptoms and prognosis, according to the Neuropathy Association. Neuropathy is generally referred to as a disorder of the peripheral nerves, which includes motor, sensory and autonomic connections to the spinal cord, muscles and internal organs. Neuropathy symptoms occur as weakness in the arms and legs caused by motor nerve damage, abnormal sensations and numbness from sensory nerve damage and dizziness or intestinal dysfunctions from autonomic nerve damage. Symptoms can persist or occur variably. Neuropathy is most commonly associated with diabetes and other medical conditions, but neuropathy caused by chemical exposure is also prominent.
Lead
Chronic lead exposure from working in an industrial setting is associated with lead toxicity and the development of peripheral neuropathy. According to Neurology Medlink, toxic lead exposure has been diminished significantly in most environmental situations, but industrial workers may be consistently exposed to toxic levels of lead, causing increased risk of developing the condition. Neuropathy symptoms are accompanied by renal dysfunction, anemia and abdominal pain for most, yet in lead exposure neuropathy, the sensory symptoms are minimally present. Motor or muscular disturbance is prominent in lead-based neuropathy and commonly includes weakness on both sides of the body, loss of reflexes and loss of muscle.
Mercury
Mercury is an element that is or has historically be used in a variety of products, such as thermometers, electronic equipment and dental accessories. According to Neurology Medlink, the link between neuropathy and toxic mercury exposure is commonly found in industrial settings where numerous mercury-based salts are used. The body absorbs mercury salts through the gastrointestinal tract, and symptoms often do not appear for decades after consistent exposure. Motor nerve damage and sensory damage is associated with mercury toxicity. Mercury is known to also become toxic in heated metallic form or as a vapor.
Pesticides
Pesticides containing organophosphates are believed to cause delayed onset of polyneuropathy. A 2008 study published in the "Hand Journal" reported that intentional or unintentional exposure to insecticides with organophosphate results in neuropathy. The study indicates that organophosphate-induced neuropathy is uncommon, however, ingesting significant amounts of the chemicals alters the bodies natural process to fight off toxins, thus leading to toxic neuropathy. Symptom features of intoxication from organophosphates includes muscular weakness and delayed sensory disturbance.
Additional Chemicals
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke explains that additional toxins, such as anticancer drugs with vinca alkaloids or platinum, and some antibiotics, such as metronidazole, may also cause neuropathy symptoms. The symptoms of neuropathy by drug toxins are temporary, making regular physician monitoring of known medications with this side effect important.
References
- Neuropathy Association: Neuropathy
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet
- Neurology Medlink: Lead Neuropathy
- Neurology Medlink: Mercury Neuropathy
- "Hand"; Delayed Neuropathy Due to Organophosphate Insecticide Injection in an Attempt to Commit Suicide; Selma Sonmez Ergun, et al; March 2009
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