Giuseppe Abbritti - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Giuseppe Abbritti
PubMed, Jul 30, 2011
Background: Permanent education of health workers is obligatory under Italian legislation and is ... more Background: Permanent education of health workers is obligatory under Italian legislation and is managed by the Ministry of Health through its Permanent Education Programme. Methods: In 2000 the Italian Society of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (SIMLII), set up and implemented a programme of Permanent Education and Accreditation for specialists in occupational medicine, based on participation in "non-mandatory" and "mandatory" educational activities. "Non-mandatory" activities were chosen by the individual physician for education in topics related to occupational medicine. "Mandatory" educational activities, which were organised by the Society, included in-depth analysis of the Society's guidelines related to specific topics in occupational medicine. Results and discussion: The Guidelines study course played a pre-eminent role in the Society's permanent education programme and was greatly appreciated by all participants. The Board of the Society has recently approved a new Plan of Permanent Education, identifying the means (Guidelines, Consensus Documents) whereby occupational physicians can improve their professional standards. The Plan's aims are to facilitate accreditation and also to identify and promote high-quality updating programmes which will lead to recognition of 'professional excellence". Crucial to its success will be a 3-year on-line learning programme (MeLA) that SIMLII has just implemented, which will enable occupational physicians to acquire credits in "Occupational Medicine and Workplace Safety", as required by current Italian legislation. This article summarizes SIMLII activities over the past ten years in the field of permanent medical education for occupational physicians.
PubMed, Jun 29, 2004
Background: Working conditions and the environment may contribute to the multi-factorial aetiolog... more Background: Working conditions and the environment may contribute to the multi-factorial aetiology of cardiovascular disease. Objectives: To provide a critical assessment of epidemiological and clinical methods and tools for evaluating the effects of occupational pathogenic noxae on the cardiovascular system. Methods: A review was made of epidemiological and clinical studies published in the main scientific journals of occupational medicine and cardiology, in the period 1980-2003. Data sources were electronic medical data bases and conference proceedings. Results and conclusion: Collecting case histories by means of free or questionnaire-structured interviews, observing specific physical signs, detecting changes in blood chemistry parameters and identifying morphological or functional abnormalities in the heart and vessels are all useful approaches. Some blood chemistry parameters that may be modified by occupational exposure or by particular conditions arising from work organization are cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoproteins A and B, platelets, fibrinogen, factor VIIc, fibrinolysis products, plasminogen tissue activating factor, complement and glycated hemoglobin. They can all be measured easily and quickly and provide an estimate of the risk of cardiovascular disease. As high blood pressure is closely correlated to heart disease, blood pressure levels can be monitored in a working population using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. Electronic measurement before and after a work shift and 24 hour Holter monitoring help reduce the "white coat effect" and provide further useful information. Occupational risk factors such as toxins (metals, solvents, pesticides), electromagnetic fields, extreme temperatures, noise, radiation and psychophysical stress can affect the cardiac neuro-autonomic balance of the exposed workers and cause cardiovascular abnormalities. These can be detected by long-term ECG monitoring, and are revealed as reduced heart rate variability and prolonged QT interval. Recently non-invasive systems have been adopted to detect cardiovascular lesions that are usually due to atherosclerosis. In occupational and environmental studies ultrasound measurement of intima-medial carotid thickness and brachial artery reactivity have been used to determine the effects of exposure to carbon disulfide and passive smoking. Occupational Medicine has yet to include the use of the very expensive electron-beam computed tomography for a rapid and non-invasive study of coronary artery disease.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Dec 8, 2004
In Europe, continuing medical education is one of the main instruments for improving physicians' ... more In Europe, continuing medical education is one of the main instruments for improving physicians' performance and ensuring adequate health care for citizens. Recent regulations have made such continuing education compulsory in Italy. Considering the particular features of occupational medicine, the Italian Society of Industrial Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (S.I.M.L.I.I.) recently set up a specific education and accreditation programme for occupational physicians, called the ''Excellence Accreditation Scheme''. The programme is based on the findings of a survey among occupational physicians, carried out in collaboration with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Prevention (I.S.P.E.S.L.), which enquired into their training and continuing education needs. The programme started in 2003, and its first edition-presented here-involved more than 400 physicians specialising in occupational health.
La Medicina del lavoro
Over the last 30 years, transformation of indoor environments--in particular in office blocks--ha... more Over the last 30 years, transformation of indoor environments--in particular in office blocks--has been associated with complaints from workers of discomfort, malaise and even diseases termed Building Related Illnesses (BRI) which are classified as specific (e.g. Legionnaire disease, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonia) or non-specific (e.g. the Sick Building Syndrome). A review was made of data from international public health organisations, epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies and congress proceedings from 1990 to 2006 on the topic of indoor air quality and health in modern, non-industrial workplaces. Studies focused on ventilation, temperature and air humidity and specific pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds, particules asbestos fibres, environmental tobacco smoke, radon and biological agents. We can now measure microclimate parameters and many indoor air pollutant levels as well as their effects on health; we can also formulate indications of threshold and...
Giornale italiano di medicina del lavoro ed ergonomia
The importance to correctly address continuing education among occupational health professionals ... more The importance to correctly address continuing education among occupational health professionals in Italy has been particular in the focus of the Scientific and Professional Medical Community also in consideration of the recent regulations implemented in the field of Continuing Medical Education (CME). The Italian Society of Occupational Medicine recently developed an advanced programme of Continuing Medical Education for Occupational Physician. In order to correctly asses the education needs and collect valid information of Occupational Physicians in Italy we administered a target questionnaire among a group of them. The results are analyzed and discussed.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 1995
Background: The occupational uses of latex gloves" may be associawd with asthma. Hypersensitivity... more Background: The occupational uses of latex gloves" may be associawd with asthma. Hypersensitivity to latex has been shown to be IgE-mediated. The asthmatic reaction to latex is' usually early; however, the natural history of latex asthma is still unknown. Objective: The purposes of this study were to investigate asthmatic responses induced by natural rubber latex and to assess the long-term respiratory consequences of latex-induced asthma after removal from exposure. Methods-This report describes the clinical and immunologic study of six nurses with workrelated respiratory and skin disorders induced by the use of latex gloves. To determine whether the symptoms induced by latex gloves were IgE-mediated, we assessed latex IgE antibody levels by skin prick tests (SPTs) and RASTs with latex extracts. To confirm work-related latex reactions, we assessed respiratory symptoms, skin reactions, and FEV z after a glove exposure test and an inhalation provocation test with latex gloves. All subjects were followed up for 7 months to 7years after the first observation. Results: All subjects had positive SPT and RAST responses to latex extracts, posflive double prick test responses to latex gloves, and negative SPT responses to cornstarch and common allergens. Ten atopic and 10 nonatopic control subjects had negative SPT responses to latex and cornstarch extracts and negative double prick test responses to latex gloves. In three subjects latex allergy was associated with allergy to fruit (banana and chestnu O. After the glove exposure test, four of six subjects had contact urticaria, all had rhinoconjunctivitis, and two had a late asthmatic response. The inhalation provocation test was pelfonned on four subjects: all had rhinoconjunctivitis, two had urticaria and late asthmatic response, and one had laryngeal edema. A late asthmatic response was recorded in four subjects. Three subjects continued to have chronic asthma, and four subjects had increased nonspecific bronchial responsiveness 7 months to 7 years after being assigned to duties' not involving latex gloves. Conclusions: This study of six nurses shows that latex is a potential cause of occupational asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and urticaria-angioedema. Latex seems to include antigens that elicit IgE-mediated hypersensitivity and may cause a late asthmatic reaction. Occupational asthma caused by latex may lead to permanent respiratory disability, even after removal from exposure.
Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 1994
Recent research has shown that magnesium levels in serum, salivary secretions and red blood cells... more Recent research has shown that magnesium levels in serum, salivary secretions and red blood cells are reduced in migraine patients with and without aura, both ictally and interictally. This suggests that lower magnesium levels can contribute to the etiopathogenetic mechanisms underlying migraine attacks. It has been suggested that mononuclear magnesium content is a reliable index of magnesium nutritional status, as it is more closely related to the total body stores than other biochemical indices. Therefore we determined mononuclear magnesium content in adult migraine patients with and without aura, in headache-free periods and, in a number of patients, during attacks. Migraine patients with and without aura, assessed in interictal periods, had a reduced mononuclear magnesium content compared to age-matched healthy control subjects. No significant variations were observed between ictal and interictal periods in migraine patients with aura and without aura. The lower magnesium content in mononuclear cells could indirectly indicate the reduction of brain magnesium concentration, which has recently been demonstrated in the course of migraine.
Chemico-Biological Interactions, 1972
Abstract The effect of four substituted acetamides and of two barbiturates on the levels of cytoc... more Abstract The effect of four substituted acetamides and of two barbiturates on the levels of cytochrome P-450 and catalase has been studied and related to the induction of porphyria in the liver of rats. Drugs containing one or two allyl substituents were found to depress the activity of catalase and the levels of cytochrome P-450; they were also porphyrogenic. The significance of these findings is discussed in the light of recent evidence for destruction of liver haem in experimental porphyria.
Cephalalgia, 1992
It has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in different etiopathogenetic condition... more It has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in different etiopathogenetic conditions involved in the onset of migraine. We measured, by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, serum and salivary magnesium levels in drug-free migraine patients with and without aura and in tension-type headache patients. Migraine sufferers with and without aura and tension-type headache had significantly lower levels of serum and salivary magnesium concentrations in the interical periods than a group of healthy young individuals. Serum magnesium levels tended to be further reduced during attacks in all patient groups studied. A statistically significant decrease in salivary magnesium levels was evident only for migraine patients with aura. Serum magnesium levels and to a lesser extent salivary magnesium levels might express indirectly the lowering of brain extracellular magnesium concentration which occurs in migraine patients both in the intererictal periods and ictally.
Cephalalgia, 1993
In the last few years, it has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in establishing ... more In the last few years, it has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in establishing a threshold for migraine attacks and in intervening with the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in their onset. Accordingly, we determined red blood cell magnesium levels in adult migraine patients with and without aura interictally and in some of them also ictally. In comparison with normal subjects, migraineurs with and without aura had significantly lower red blood cell magnesium levels in the interictal period. Ictal red blood cell magnesium levels did not differ from the interictal values. Low red blood cell magnesium levels could be a peripheral expression of the reduced brain magnesium concentration observed in migraine patients.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1976
Shoe-makers' polyneuropathy in Italy: the aetiological problem. Since 1957, when the first cases ... more Shoe-makers' polyneuropathy in Italy: the aetiological problem. Since 1957, when the first cases of the so-called shoe-makers' toxic polyneuropathy were reported, nearly 4.00 cases have been described in the Italian literature. The substance that was considered to be responsible for the disease was triorthocresylphosphate (TOCP) contained in glues, artificial leathers, and some types of paints. However numerous chemical analyses of glues and leathers taken from factories where cases of the disease occurred have shown that in almost all instances little or no TOCP was present. In addition the disease manifests itself more frequently during winter and spring and this is not consistent with the absorption of the causative agent through the skin and/or gastrointestinal tract. In order to clarify the aetiology of the disease 122 workers in the shoe industry affected by toxic polyneuropathy during the period 1971-74 were studied. Workplaces where cases of polyneuropathy had occurred were visited and samples of glues and solvents were taken for chemical analysis. The polyneuropathy chiefly affects workers engaged in glueing and in the cleaning process, but it also affects those who do not have direct contact with glues or solvents. The disease is more common in women (68 %) than in men (32 %) and, in its more severe form, begins with overwhelming prevalence during winter and early spring regardless of the job performed. No direct relationship has been found between the severity of the disease and the number of years of work in the shoe industry or of specific exposure (that is the number of years of work in the activity performed at the onset of the disease). The polyneuropathy is found almost exclusively among workers of the artisan type in small shoe factories, where standards of hygiene are low. Chemical analysis of glues and cleaning fluids collected from five different factories, where 20 cases of polyneuropathy occurred, showed the presence of paraffin hydrocarbons with a low boiling point (pentane, 2-methylpentane, 3-methyl-pentane, n-hexane, etc.) in concentrations of more than 80% by weight.
Archives of Environmental Health: An International Journal, 1992
This study, which was conducted in central Italy, included (a) 525 office workers employed in an ... more This study, which was conducted in central Italy, included (a) 525 office workers employed in an air-conditioned building that had fan coil units in every room (building B) and (b) 281 subjects who worked in three naturally ventilated buildings (building A) that were operated by the same public administration. The prevalence of work-related symptoms was assessed by a questionnaire that was administered by an occupational medicine specialist. The most frequent complaints of employees in building B were dry air, strong lighting, and high temperature. Employees who worked in this building experienced a statistically higher prevalence of symptoms that were characteristic of the sick building syndrome. This is the first time that this syndrome has been reported in Italy. Excessive illumination, a low relative humidity, and fiberglass on floors and furniture might have contributed to the symptoms. Inadequate maintenance of the building's air-conditioning plant and the employees' lack of information regarding self-regulation of the fan coil units may also have contributed to the prevalence of symptoms.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 1976
SYNOPSIS The toxic polyneuropathy observed in a group of shoe-industry workers in Italy was clini... more SYNOPSIS The toxic polyneuropathy observed in a group of shoe-industry workers in Italy was clinically characterised by a symmetrical prevalently distal motor deficit, with occasional marked weakness of pelvic girdle muscles, and frequently by only subjective sensory symptoms; non-specific disturbances usually preceded neurological signs. Subclinical cases of 'minimal' chronic neuropathy, characterised by alterations of a neurogenic type in the EMG without a reduction of motor nerve conduction velocity, were also observed. Worsening of the clinical picture, with further lowering of nerve conduction velocity, was noted in some cases up to four months after removal from the toxic environment. In the most severe cases clinical recovery took up to three years. The electromyographic and electroneurographic features were consistent with a mixed, mainly axonal neuropathy, with clear prevalence of the damage in the distal part of the nerve (dying-back neuropathy). Volatile substances, such as n-hexane and other low boiling point hydrocarbons found in high percentage in solvents and glues, are suggested as the causative agent.
G Ital Med Lav Erg, 2005
RIASSUNTO. Viene di seguito presentato il progetto di ricerca cofinanziato dal MIUR “Esposizione ... more RIASSUNTO. Viene di seguito presentato il progetto di ricerca cofinanziato dal MIUR “Esposizione ambientale ed occupazionale a piombo inorganico: studio degli effetti tossici conseguenti alle dosi correnti e delle relative misure preventive” svoltosi tra il 2001 ed il 2003. Tra gli scopi della ricerca l'approfondimento delle conoscenze sugli effetti sulla salute delle attuali esposizioni a piombo (in particolare effetti sull'ipertensione arteriosa, cancerogenesi, neuropsicologici ed immunitari), l'identificazione di situazioni di ...
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1995
Many cases of work related compression neuropathy of the ulnar and median nerves at the wrist hav... more Many cases of work related compression neuropathy of the ulnar and median nerves at the wrist have been described. This report presents a case of bilateral distal neuropathy of the median and ulnar nerves in a parquet floorer, who laid wooden block flooring by hand and used the palms and volar surface of both hands to hit the blocks into place. He also used an electric sander and polisher. Bilateral numbness and paraesthesias in all fingers had been present for about one year. Clinical examination was normal;
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007
Silicosis is caused by inhaling free crystalline silica. Few case reports have addressed the risk... more Silicosis is caused by inhaling free crystalline silica. Few case reports have addressed the risk of silicosis in the jewelry trade where chalk molds containing a high percentage of silica are used in casting. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 100 goldsmiths exposed to silica. All workers replied to a questionnaire and underwent a clinical examination, pulmonary function tests, a chest X-ray and a high-resolution CT scan. High-resolution CT visualized signs of silicosis in 23 cases, confirmed by standard chest X-rays in 10. In the 23 workers with CT evidence of silicosis Total Lung Capacity, FEV1 and the Lung Diffusing Capacity did not differ from the workers without the disease. Pulmonary function tests did not correlate with silica exposure. In this study we demonstrate that use of chalk molds in casting in jewelry causes silicosis. The composition of the dust could be responsible of the high prevalence observed.
![Research paper thumbnail of [The new methodology to produce instruments for updating occupational physician proposed by Italian Society of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (SIMLII)]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/42449203/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](. In this paper we present the new methodology defined by our Society for producing the different... more . In this paper we present the new methodology defined by our Society for producing the different kind of instruments such as guide lines, consensus conference reports, technology assessments, good practices statements guide lines focusing as the main aspects those related to definitions, argument choice, working group and coordinator identification, producing methods, evidence evaluation, grading, quality evaluation using AGREE method, dissemination procedure, the conflict of interest and the possible use for distance formation procedure focusing the recommendations that take a practical-applicative approach.
PubMed, Jul 30, 2011
Background: Permanent education of health workers is obligatory under Italian legislation and is ... more Background: Permanent education of health workers is obligatory under Italian legislation and is managed by the Ministry of Health through its Permanent Education Programme. Methods: In 2000 the Italian Society of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (SIMLII), set up and implemented a programme of Permanent Education and Accreditation for specialists in occupational medicine, based on participation in "non-mandatory" and "mandatory" educational activities. "Non-mandatory" activities were chosen by the individual physician for education in topics related to occupational medicine. "Mandatory" educational activities, which were organised by the Society, included in-depth analysis of the Society's guidelines related to specific topics in occupational medicine. Results and discussion: The Guidelines study course played a pre-eminent role in the Society's permanent education programme and was greatly appreciated by all participants. The Board of the Society has recently approved a new Plan of Permanent Education, identifying the means (Guidelines, Consensus Documents) whereby occupational physicians can improve their professional standards. The Plan's aims are to facilitate accreditation and also to identify and promote high-quality updating programmes which will lead to recognition of 'professional excellence". Crucial to its success will be a 3-year on-line learning programme (MeLA) that SIMLII has just implemented, which will enable occupational physicians to acquire credits in "Occupational Medicine and Workplace Safety", as required by current Italian legislation. This article summarizes SIMLII activities over the past ten years in the field of permanent medical education for occupational physicians.
PubMed, Jun 29, 2004
Background: Working conditions and the environment may contribute to the multi-factorial aetiolog... more Background: Working conditions and the environment may contribute to the multi-factorial aetiology of cardiovascular disease. Objectives: To provide a critical assessment of epidemiological and clinical methods and tools for evaluating the effects of occupational pathogenic noxae on the cardiovascular system. Methods: A review was made of epidemiological and clinical studies published in the main scientific journals of occupational medicine and cardiology, in the period 1980-2003. Data sources were electronic medical data bases and conference proceedings. Results and conclusion: Collecting case histories by means of free or questionnaire-structured interviews, observing specific physical signs, detecting changes in blood chemistry parameters and identifying morphological or functional abnormalities in the heart and vessels are all useful approaches. Some blood chemistry parameters that may be modified by occupational exposure or by particular conditions arising from work organization are cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoproteins A and B, platelets, fibrinogen, factor VIIc, fibrinolysis products, plasminogen tissue activating factor, complement and glycated hemoglobin. They can all be measured easily and quickly and provide an estimate of the risk of cardiovascular disease. As high blood pressure is closely correlated to heart disease, blood pressure levels can be monitored in a working population using a standard mercury sphygmomanometer. Electronic measurement before and after a work shift and 24 hour Holter monitoring help reduce the "white coat effect" and provide further useful information. Occupational risk factors such as toxins (metals, solvents, pesticides), electromagnetic fields, extreme temperatures, noise, radiation and psychophysical stress can affect the cardiac neuro-autonomic balance of the exposed workers and cause cardiovascular abnormalities. These can be detected by long-term ECG monitoring, and are revealed as reduced heart rate variability and prolonged QT interval. Recently non-invasive systems have been adopted to detect cardiovascular lesions that are usually due to atherosclerosis. In occupational and environmental studies ultrasound measurement of intima-medial carotid thickness and brachial artery reactivity have been used to determine the effects of exposure to carbon disulfide and passive smoking. Occupational Medicine has yet to include the use of the very expensive electron-beam computed tomography for a rapid and non-invasive study of coronary artery disease.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Dec 8, 2004
In Europe, continuing medical education is one of the main instruments for improving physicians' ... more In Europe, continuing medical education is one of the main instruments for improving physicians' performance and ensuring adequate health care for citizens. Recent regulations have made such continuing education compulsory in Italy. Considering the particular features of occupational medicine, the Italian Society of Industrial Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (S.I.M.L.I.I.) recently set up a specific education and accreditation programme for occupational physicians, called the ''Excellence Accreditation Scheme''. The programme is based on the findings of a survey among occupational physicians, carried out in collaboration with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Prevention (I.S.P.E.S.L.), which enquired into their training and continuing education needs. The programme started in 2003, and its first edition-presented here-involved more than 400 physicians specialising in occupational health.
La Medicina del lavoro
Over the last 30 years, transformation of indoor environments--in particular in office blocks--ha... more Over the last 30 years, transformation of indoor environments--in particular in office blocks--has been associated with complaints from workers of discomfort, malaise and even diseases termed Building Related Illnesses (BRI) which are classified as specific (e.g. Legionnaire disease, asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonia) or non-specific (e.g. the Sick Building Syndrome). A review was made of data from international public health organisations, epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies and congress proceedings from 1990 to 2006 on the topic of indoor air quality and health in modern, non-industrial workplaces. Studies focused on ventilation, temperature and air humidity and specific pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds, particules asbestos fibres, environmental tobacco smoke, radon and biological agents. We can now measure microclimate parameters and many indoor air pollutant levels as well as their effects on health; we can also formulate indications of threshold and...
Giornale italiano di medicina del lavoro ed ergonomia
The importance to correctly address continuing education among occupational health professionals ... more The importance to correctly address continuing education among occupational health professionals in Italy has been particular in the focus of the Scientific and Professional Medical Community also in consideration of the recent regulations implemented in the field of Continuing Medical Education (CME). The Italian Society of Occupational Medicine recently developed an advanced programme of Continuing Medical Education for Occupational Physician. In order to correctly asses the education needs and collect valid information of Occupational Physicians in Italy we administered a target questionnaire among a group of them. The results are analyzed and discussed.
Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 1995
Background: The occupational uses of latex gloves" may be associawd with asthma. Hypersensitivity... more Background: The occupational uses of latex gloves" may be associawd with asthma. Hypersensitivity to latex has been shown to be IgE-mediated. The asthmatic reaction to latex is' usually early; however, the natural history of latex asthma is still unknown. Objective: The purposes of this study were to investigate asthmatic responses induced by natural rubber latex and to assess the long-term respiratory consequences of latex-induced asthma after removal from exposure. Methods-This report describes the clinical and immunologic study of six nurses with workrelated respiratory and skin disorders induced by the use of latex gloves. To determine whether the symptoms induced by latex gloves were IgE-mediated, we assessed latex IgE antibody levels by skin prick tests (SPTs) and RASTs with latex extracts. To confirm work-related latex reactions, we assessed respiratory symptoms, skin reactions, and FEV z after a glove exposure test and an inhalation provocation test with latex gloves. All subjects were followed up for 7 months to 7years after the first observation. Results: All subjects had positive SPT and RAST responses to latex extracts, posflive double prick test responses to latex gloves, and negative SPT responses to cornstarch and common allergens. Ten atopic and 10 nonatopic control subjects had negative SPT responses to latex and cornstarch extracts and negative double prick test responses to latex gloves. In three subjects latex allergy was associated with allergy to fruit (banana and chestnu O. After the glove exposure test, four of six subjects had contact urticaria, all had rhinoconjunctivitis, and two had a late asthmatic response. The inhalation provocation test was pelfonned on four subjects: all had rhinoconjunctivitis, two had urticaria and late asthmatic response, and one had laryngeal edema. A late asthmatic response was recorded in four subjects. Three subjects continued to have chronic asthma, and four subjects had increased nonspecific bronchial responsiveness 7 months to 7 years after being assigned to duties' not involving latex gloves. Conclusions: This study of six nurses shows that latex is a potential cause of occupational asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and urticaria-angioedema. Latex seems to include antigens that elicit IgE-mediated hypersensitivity and may cause a late asthmatic reaction. Occupational asthma caused by latex may lead to permanent respiratory disability, even after removal from exposure.
Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 1994
Recent research has shown that magnesium levels in serum, salivary secretions and red blood cells... more Recent research has shown that magnesium levels in serum, salivary secretions and red blood cells are reduced in migraine patients with and without aura, both ictally and interictally. This suggests that lower magnesium levels can contribute to the etiopathogenetic mechanisms underlying migraine attacks. It has been suggested that mononuclear magnesium content is a reliable index of magnesium nutritional status, as it is more closely related to the total body stores than other biochemical indices. Therefore we determined mononuclear magnesium content in adult migraine patients with and without aura, in headache-free periods and, in a number of patients, during attacks. Migraine patients with and without aura, assessed in interictal periods, had a reduced mononuclear magnesium content compared to age-matched healthy control subjects. No significant variations were observed between ictal and interictal periods in migraine patients with aura and without aura. The lower magnesium content in mononuclear cells could indirectly indicate the reduction of brain magnesium concentration, which has recently been demonstrated in the course of migraine.
Chemico-Biological Interactions, 1972
Abstract The effect of four substituted acetamides and of two barbiturates on the levels of cytoc... more Abstract The effect of four substituted acetamides and of two barbiturates on the levels of cytochrome P-450 and catalase has been studied and related to the induction of porphyria in the liver of rats. Drugs containing one or two allyl substituents were found to depress the activity of catalase and the levels of cytochrome P-450; they were also porphyrogenic. The significance of these findings is discussed in the light of recent evidence for destruction of liver haem in experimental porphyria.
Cephalalgia, 1992
It has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in different etiopathogenetic condition... more It has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in different etiopathogenetic conditions involved in the onset of migraine. We measured, by atomic absorption spectrophotometry, serum and salivary magnesium levels in drug-free migraine patients with and without aura and in tension-type headache patients. Migraine sufferers with and without aura and tension-type headache had significantly lower levels of serum and salivary magnesium concentrations in the interical periods than a group of healthy young individuals. Serum magnesium levels tended to be further reduced during attacks in all patient groups studied. A statistically significant decrease in salivary magnesium levels was evident only for migraine patients with aura. Serum magnesium levels and to a lesser extent salivary magnesium levels might express indirectly the lowering of brain extracellular magnesium concentration which occurs in migraine patients both in the intererictal periods and ictally.
Cephalalgia, 1993
In the last few years, it has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in establishing ... more In the last few years, it has been suggested that magnesium plays a central role in establishing a threshold for migraine attacks and in intervening with the pathogenetic mechanisms involved in their onset. Accordingly, we determined red blood cell magnesium levels in adult migraine patients with and without aura interictally and in some of them also ictally. In comparison with normal subjects, migraineurs with and without aura had significantly lower red blood cell magnesium levels in the interictal period. Ictal red blood cell magnesium levels did not differ from the interictal values. Low red blood cell magnesium levels could be a peripheral expression of the reduced brain magnesium concentration observed in migraine patients.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1976
Shoe-makers' polyneuropathy in Italy: the aetiological problem. Since 1957, when the first cases ... more Shoe-makers' polyneuropathy in Italy: the aetiological problem. Since 1957, when the first cases of the so-called shoe-makers' toxic polyneuropathy were reported, nearly 4.00 cases have been described in the Italian literature. The substance that was considered to be responsible for the disease was triorthocresylphosphate (TOCP) contained in glues, artificial leathers, and some types of paints. However numerous chemical analyses of glues and leathers taken from factories where cases of the disease occurred have shown that in almost all instances little or no TOCP was present. In addition the disease manifests itself more frequently during winter and spring and this is not consistent with the absorption of the causative agent through the skin and/or gastrointestinal tract. In order to clarify the aetiology of the disease 122 workers in the shoe industry affected by toxic polyneuropathy during the period 1971-74 were studied. Workplaces where cases of polyneuropathy had occurred were visited and samples of glues and solvents were taken for chemical analysis. The polyneuropathy chiefly affects workers engaged in glueing and in the cleaning process, but it also affects those who do not have direct contact with glues or solvents. The disease is more common in women (68 %) than in men (32 %) and, in its more severe form, begins with overwhelming prevalence during winter and early spring regardless of the job performed. No direct relationship has been found between the severity of the disease and the number of years of work in the shoe industry or of specific exposure (that is the number of years of work in the activity performed at the onset of the disease). The polyneuropathy is found almost exclusively among workers of the artisan type in small shoe factories, where standards of hygiene are low. Chemical analysis of glues and cleaning fluids collected from five different factories, where 20 cases of polyneuropathy occurred, showed the presence of paraffin hydrocarbons with a low boiling point (pentane, 2-methylpentane, 3-methyl-pentane, n-hexane, etc.) in concentrations of more than 80% by weight.
Archives of Environmental Health: An International Journal, 1992
This study, which was conducted in central Italy, included (a) 525 office workers employed in an ... more This study, which was conducted in central Italy, included (a) 525 office workers employed in an air-conditioned building that had fan coil units in every room (building B) and (b) 281 subjects who worked in three naturally ventilated buildings (building A) that were operated by the same public administration. The prevalence of work-related symptoms was assessed by a questionnaire that was administered by an occupational medicine specialist. The most frequent complaints of employees in building B were dry air, strong lighting, and high temperature. Employees who worked in this building experienced a statistically higher prevalence of symptoms that were characteristic of the sick building syndrome. This is the first time that this syndrome has been reported in Italy. Excessive illumination, a low relative humidity, and fiberglass on floors and furniture might have contributed to the symptoms. Inadequate maintenance of the building's air-conditioning plant and the employees' lack of information regarding self-regulation of the fan coil units may also have contributed to the prevalence of symptoms.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 1976
SYNOPSIS The toxic polyneuropathy observed in a group of shoe-industry workers in Italy was clini... more SYNOPSIS The toxic polyneuropathy observed in a group of shoe-industry workers in Italy was clinically characterised by a symmetrical prevalently distal motor deficit, with occasional marked weakness of pelvic girdle muscles, and frequently by only subjective sensory symptoms; non-specific disturbances usually preceded neurological signs. Subclinical cases of 'minimal' chronic neuropathy, characterised by alterations of a neurogenic type in the EMG without a reduction of motor nerve conduction velocity, were also observed. Worsening of the clinical picture, with further lowering of nerve conduction velocity, was noted in some cases up to four months after removal from the toxic environment. In the most severe cases clinical recovery took up to three years. The electromyographic and electroneurographic features were consistent with a mixed, mainly axonal neuropathy, with clear prevalence of the damage in the distal part of the nerve (dying-back neuropathy). Volatile substances, such as n-hexane and other low boiling point hydrocarbons found in high percentage in solvents and glues, are suggested as the causative agent.
G Ital Med Lav Erg, 2005
RIASSUNTO. Viene di seguito presentato il progetto di ricerca cofinanziato dal MIUR “Esposizione ... more RIASSUNTO. Viene di seguito presentato il progetto di ricerca cofinanziato dal MIUR “Esposizione ambientale ed occupazionale a piombo inorganico: studio degli effetti tossici conseguenti alle dosi correnti e delle relative misure preventive” svoltosi tra il 2001 ed il 2003. Tra gli scopi della ricerca l'approfondimento delle conoscenze sugli effetti sulla salute delle attuali esposizioni a piombo (in particolare effetti sull'ipertensione arteriosa, cancerogenesi, neuropsicologici ed immunitari), l'identificazione di situazioni di ...
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 1995
Many cases of work related compression neuropathy of the ulnar and median nerves at the wrist hav... more Many cases of work related compression neuropathy of the ulnar and median nerves at the wrist have been described. This report presents a case of bilateral distal neuropathy of the median and ulnar nerves in a parquet floorer, who laid wooden block flooring by hand and used the palms and volar surface of both hands to hit the blocks into place. He also used an electric sander and polisher. Bilateral numbness and paraesthesias in all fingers had been present for about one year. Clinical examination was normal;
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, 2007
Silicosis is caused by inhaling free crystalline silica. Few case reports have addressed the risk... more Silicosis is caused by inhaling free crystalline silica. Few case reports have addressed the risk of silicosis in the jewelry trade where chalk molds containing a high percentage of silica are used in casting. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 100 goldsmiths exposed to silica. All workers replied to a questionnaire and underwent a clinical examination, pulmonary function tests, a chest X-ray and a high-resolution CT scan. High-resolution CT visualized signs of silicosis in 23 cases, confirmed by standard chest X-rays in 10. In the 23 workers with CT evidence of silicosis Total Lung Capacity, FEV1 and the Lung Diffusing Capacity did not differ from the workers without the disease. Pulmonary function tests did not correlate with silica exposure. In this study we demonstrate that use of chalk molds in casting in jewelry causes silicosis. The composition of the dust could be responsible of the high prevalence observed.
. In this paper we present the new methodology defined by our Society for producing the different... more . In this paper we present the new methodology defined by our Society for producing the different kind of instruments such as guide lines, consensus conference reports, technology assessments, good practices statements guide lines focusing as the main aspects those related to definitions, argument choice, working group and coordinator identification, producing methods, evidence evaluation, grading, quality evaluation using AGREE method, dissemination procedure, the conflict of interest and the possible use for distance formation procedure focusing the recommendations that take a practical-applicative approach.