Carbon disulphide

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study was to examine whether an increase can be detected in the prevalence of coronary heart disease or a higher prevalence of unusual cardiological findings in workers with occupational exposure to carbon disulphide (CS₂) at the level of the threshold limit value of 10 ppm currently valid in occupational medicine. ·Methods In a cross-sectional study we investigated 247 men occupationally exposed to CS₂ and a comparable control group (n=222). The current exposure to CS₂ was measured using personal air monitoring and biological monitoring of all test persons. A cumulative exposure index (median of CS₂ exposure in the past multiplied by the duration of employment) was calculated. In addition to collecting comprehensive anamnestic data on all persons, we carried out a physical examination, an ultrasound examination of the large arteries, a resting and exercise ECG and an echocardiographic examination. ·Results No increase could be found in the prevalence of coronary heart disease or of arteriosclerotic findings in the exposed subjects. There was no difference in the distribution of the performance of the two groups in the ergometric tests. The echocardiogram showed a median increase in the diameter of the left atrium and left ventricle of 1–2 mm in the exposed subjects. These differences could also be confirmed statistically after multiple linear regression analysis. The left ventricular, telesystolic diameter was positively associated (P<0.05) with internal exposure (CS₂ metabolite in urine), and fractional shortening revealed a plausible negative trend (P=0.0755). Current external exposure (CS₂ in air) and cumulative exposure did not influence any of the parameters investigated. ·Conclusion The findings may indicate a negatively inotropic effect of CS₂ so far unknown in man. However, no clinical relevance for this effect was apparent.