Lead arsenate as an underestimated cause of polyneuropathy in rural environment: description of two cases
Foà, V.; Gilioli, R.; Rizzi, B.; Merluzzi, F.
Rivista di Patologia Nervosa E Mentale 96(6): 363-377
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0035-6433 PMID: 1023347 Document Number: 96588
Two cases of lead arsenate polyneuropathy are described in two farmers from the same rural area; the etiology of the neurologic al disorder was ascertained only after repeated hospital admissions. It was a neuropathy of the radial nerve associated with signs of peripheral impairment of the lower limbs with pains and paresthesias. Abdominal colies, arterial hipertension, anaemia and signs of renal impairment were also present. Specific therapy was undertaken which was soon followed by nearly full recovery. Lead and arsenic toxicology are discussed with particular focusing on the necessity emphasis on commun occupational hazards both in terms of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The differential diagnosis is considered between the observed clinical picture and other polyneuropathies of different etiology i.e. dysmetabolic (porphyria) or toxic (insecticides, T.O.C.P., etc).