Early detection of the toxic effects of benzene on the hematopoietic system--the imperative of modern occupational medicine
Bogadi-Sare, A.
Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada i Toksikologiju 43(3): 271-282
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-1254 PMID: 1466634 Document Number: 389693
Surveillance of workers exposed to benzene calls for a complex approach. This includes the determination of benzene concentration in the working atmosphere, which, according to standards applied in Croatia, should not exceed 15 ppm. In the developed countries the allowable workplace level has been reduced to 1 ppm. The monitoring of benzene metabolites in the organism of exposed workers is also necessary. As an indicator of benzene exposure, the urinary phenol concentration determined before and after work in the middle of the week has been generally accepted in Croatia. An essential laboratory test is a complete blood count including red cell indices. Other haematological tests that might be valuable early indicators of benzene haematotoxicity need to be more fully evaluated. Alterations in any of these indicators are not pathognomonic and all findings should therefore be interpreted at the same time and with caution. Early detection of benzene haematotoxicity can be accomplished by continuous health monitoring of exposed workers through preplacement and periodic health examinations. This is in accordance with the principles of modern occupational medicine which requires identification of early changes and prevention of irreversible benzene induced toxic changes in the haematopoietic system.