Multiple chemical sensitivity
Authors:
D. Hrubá; A. Peřina
Authors‘ workplace:
Ústav ochrany a podpory zdraví
; Přednostka: prof. MUDr. Zuzana Derflerová Brázdová, DrSc.
; Lékařská fakulta Masarykovy Univerzity, Brno
Published in:
Prakt. Lék. 2017; 97(1): 3-8
Category:
Reviews
Overview
The term multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) has been adopted for the description of individual’s multi-organ sensitivities following exposures to very low levels of chemicals commonly tolerated by majority of people. People with MCS obviously response to odours by acute respiratory distress, palpitations, skin eruptions and other physical symptoms. The spectrum of chemical triggers becomes wider over time; the reactions become more severe and long lasting. A large number of toxicological, immunological, psychological and neurological mechanisms have been suggested, but none of them could clearly explain the basis of MCS. It is also discussed a possibility of some genetic predisposition. It is estimated that about 9–33% of the population can show the MCS responses, about 2% of them ask physicians for the help. MCS can seriously disrupt the quality of life.
Unfortunately, this uncertainty about aetiology and pathogenesis of MCS is attended with the absence of effective treatment. The clinical approach advices to adopt chemical-free, isolated lifestyle, which can minimize continual exposure. The neuro-behavioural approach is oriented on the stress coping, even with the support of anti-depressive drugs. The recent recommendation is the multidisciplinary approach (general practitioners, immunologists, allergists, gynaecologists, dentists, neurologists, psychologists) after controlling and excluding of possible somatic or psychiatric disease.
Keywords:
multiple chemical sensitivity – low-levels exposure – mechanisms – treatment
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