PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY WITH SYMPATHETIC OVERACTIVITY FROM INDUSTRIAL CONTACT WITH ACRYLAMIDE

Abstract

The experimental and clinical findings of acrylamide intoxication in a human being. Acrylamide is widely used as a "chemical grout". It is pumped into dirt, clay and stone walls of excavations in a liquid state together with a catalyst, and it then polymerizes to make a watertight shield. This chemical is neurotoxic in its non-polymerized form and can be absorbed through the intact skin, mucous membranes and lungs. In spite of warnings with regard to its handling, this worker became careless, and developed a contact dermatitis and a polyneuro-pathy with bluish cold extremities which dripped perspiration. In 6-mo. time after his removal from contact with the chemical, the patient made a complete clinical recovery. He was advised not to work with the chemical.