Organophosphate Neuropathy and Biomarkers of Exposure

摘要

This project proposed to address several research needs related to organophosphate induced delayed polyneuropathy (OPIDP). These included determining whether previous poisoning with neuropathic pesticides results in residual diminished function of large-diameter myelinated sensory fibers as reflected in elevated vibrotactile threshold, and reduced sensory amplitudes in nerve conduction studies, as compared to the two control groups; determining whether previous methamidophos poisoning is associated with impaired motor function as measured by diminished amplitude of compound motor action potential in nerve conduction studies or decreased grip or pinch strength; determining whether inhibition of lymphocyte NTE activity is a sensitive and specific index of (q) methamdiophos exposure and (b) peripheral neurotoxicity; and determining whether there exist threshold levels of methamidophos exposure, as reflected in NTE inhibition, below which either sensory or motor neuropathy is no longer evident.