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Liver diseases - 277 entries found

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  • Liver diseases

1998

CIS 99-310 Ammon A., Petersen L.
Prevalence of antibodies to HBV and HCV among Berlin dentists and their assistants
HBV- und HCV-Antikörperprävalenz bei Berliner Zahnärzten und ihren Mitarbeitern [in German]
Topics: antibodies; biological hazards; dental services; epidemiologic study; infection control; infectious hepatitis; supply of personal protective equipment; vaccination.
Epidemiologisches Bulletin, 19 June 1998, No.24, p.171-174. 5 ref.

1997

CIS 01-1763 Baum S.L., Suruda A.J.
Toxic hepatitis from dimethylacetamide
Two cases of toxic hepatitis from dimethylacetamide (DMAC) occurred among 25 employees on a new acrylic-fiber production line at a U.S. manufacturing plant. Interesting features of these cases include: inadequate personal protective equipment for dermal exposures, resulting in skin penetration during maintenance and repair procedures; the subjects of these case reports are female, while all workers at the manufacturer's European parent plant were male, and DMAC related liver dysfunction had not been encountered at that site; the new American production line required more frequent maintenance and repair work than existing production lines at the European parent company, resulting in greater opportunities for DMAC exposure. Hepatotoxicity due to dermal absorption of DMAC and other amide-type solvents deserves special consideration in industrial settings.
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, Jan.-Mar. 1997, Vol.3 No.1, p.1-4. 10 ref.

CIS 99-313
Instituto Nacional de Salud
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C infection among health care workers in national health service institutions and their affiliates in ten cities of the country [Colombia]
Prevalencia de infección por hepatitis B y C entre trabajadores de la salud de IPS propias y afiliadas al Seguro Social en diez ciudades del país [in Spanish]
Topics: antigens; biological hazards; contagion; cross-sectional study; determination in blood; fluorescent antibody test; frequency rates; health care personnel; health services; hospitals; infection control; infectious hepatitis; length of service; medical supervision; occupation disease relation; vaccination.
Seguro Social, Protección Laboral, Administradora de Riesgos Profesionales, Santafé de Bogotá, Colombia, May 1997. 52p. 15 ref.

CIS 98-964 Noguchi S., Sata M., Suzuki H., Ohba K., Mizokami M., Tanikawa K.
Early therapy with interferon for acute hepatitis C acquired through a needlestick
Topics: case study; health care personnel; hepatitis; infection control; interferons; Japan; medical treatment.
Clinical Infectious Diseases, May 1997, Vol.24, No.5, p.992-994. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 98-308 Recommendations for follow-up of health-care workers after occupational exposure to hepatitis C virus
Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for follow-up of health-care workers after occupational exposure to hepatitis C virus. Topics: health care personnel; hepatitis; infection control; information of personnel; medical supervision; prophylaxis.
Journal of the American Medical Association, 1 Oct. 1997, Vol.278. No.13, p.1056-1057. 10 ref.

CIS 97-1974 Hoet P., et al.
Epidemic of liver disease caused by hydrochlorofluorocarbons used as ozone-sparing substitutes of chlorofluorocarbons
An epidemic of liver disease among nine industrial workers who had had repeated accidental exposure to a mixture of 1,1-dichloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethane and 1-chloro-1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethane is reported. Both compounds are metabolized to form reactive intermediates implicated in the hepatotoxicity of halothane. Tests showed that repeated exposure to these substances can result in serious liver injury in a large proportion of the exposed population. Trifluoroacetyl-altered liver proteins may be involved in the mechanism of hepatotoxicity.
Lancet, 23 Aug. 1997, Vol.350, No.9077, p.556-559. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 97-2050 Eddleston A.L.W.F.
Hepatitis B and health-care workers
This brief communication looks at the transmission of hepatitis B virus from health care workers to patients. A recent report provides convincing evidence of transmission of the virus from a surgeon who was HBsAg positive but HBeAg negative. This suggests that modifications may be needed to existing guidelines which require no change in work practices for health care workers who are HBeAg negative.
Lancet, May 1997, Vol.349, No.9062, p.1339-1340. 6 ref.

CIS 97-2056 McLean W., et al.
Risk associated with occupational glass injury in bar staff with special consideration of hepatitis B infection
In a survey of 91 bar staff workers, 74% reported hand injuries from broken glassware at work and 55% reported occupational skin contact with body fluids. Tests for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen and core antibody (anti-HBc) showed that these workers were not at increased risk for this infection (anti-HBc prevalence 1.1%). However, this level of injury experience and exposure to body fluids represents a potential risk of infection. Hepatitis B immunization should be considered for these workers.
Occupational Medicine, Apr. 1997, Vol.47, No.3, p.147-150. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 97-2055 Zuckerman J.N., et al.
Immune response to a new hepatitis B vaccine in healthcare workers who had not responded to standard vaccine: Randomized double blind dose-response study
The immunogenicity and reactogenicity of a new recombinant hepatitis B vaccine was evaluated in a cohort of 100 health care workers in whom currently licensed hepatitis B vaccines had not induced an immune response. 69 subjects seroconverted after a single dose of the new vaccine. After the booster vaccination, one other subject seroconverted, bringing the overall seroconversion rate to 70%. Factors affecting the immune response are discussed along with guidelines for immunization.
British Medical Journal, Feb. 1997, Vol.314, No.7077, p.329-333. 32 ref.

CIS 97-1620 Wu M.T.
Elevated serum liver enzymes in coke oven and by-product workers
Blood levels of two liver enzymes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), were measured for 213 steel workers employed for at least three months in two coke-operation work areas, and for 131 unexposed controls. Each work area contained a coke oven and a by-product plant. Airborne levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were also measured. Workers from Area I (shown to have high PAH levels) had significantly higher AST and ALT levels than the control group. Workers from Area II (lower PAH levels) had slightly, but not significantly, elevated AST and ALT levels. Results indicate that heavy exposure to coke oven emissions has adverse effects on the liver.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, June 1997, Vol.39, No.6, p.527-533. Illus. 22 ref.

1996

CIS 97-909 Lelbach W.K.
A 25-year follow-up study of heavily exposed vinyl chloride workers in Germany
Case reports are presented of 21 polyvinyl chloride (PVC) production workers with vinyl chloride-induced disease. Difficulties in identifying the true character of their lesions and their occupational origin are highlighted. In 19 cases, death was due to malignant hepatoma. Two workers died of complications of noncirrhotic portal fibrosis with portal hypertension. Except for the final stages, there was strikingly little impairment of hepatic function. Latency periods in workers with malignant hepatoma ranged from 12 to 34 years; mean latency was 22 years, and younger age at first exposure seemed to have been accompanied by shorter latency periods.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1996, Vol.29, No.5, p.446-458. 14 ref.

CIS 97-927 Burns C.J., Boswell J.M., Olsen G.W.
Liver enzyme activity and body mass index
The activity of three liver enzymes was used as a measure of liver injury among male employees of a large chemical company. Body mass index and alcohol consumption were strongly associated with increased activity in liver enzymes; body mass index remained associated with enzyme activity after controlling for alcohol consumption, race and age. These findings are important in relation to allegations that exposure to certain chlorinated solvents can cause liver disease. Results suggest that body mass index, as well as alcohol and race, are significant risk factors for abnormal liver enzyme test results.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 1996, Vol.38, No.12, p.1248-1252. 12 ref.

CIS 97-887 Tomei F., et al.
Hepatotoxic occupational risk factors
Fattori di rischio professionali epatotossici [in Italian]
The main causes of occupational liver diseases are reviewed. The list of potentially hepatotoxic substances is very long, and evidence of specific toxicity only exists for some of them. The main routes through which exposure occurs are inhalation and skin absorption. No particular histological features can be detected, nor are there specific diagnostic means for individual chemical substances. Several aspects have to be considered such as characteristics of the workplace, lifestyle and individual susceptibility.
Minerva medica, Dec. 1996, Vol.87, No.12, p.585-598. 96 ref.

CIS 97-663 Léry L.
Serologic markers of hepatitis among staff in a hospital in Lyon
Les marqueurs sérologiques d'hépatites du personnel d'un hôpital lyonnais [in French]
The survey of various hepatitis markers among the staff of a hospital in Lyon was analyzed retrospectively. The prevalence of markers was 45.1% for hepatitis A, 13.9% for hepatitis B, and 1.6% for hepatitis C. The prevalence of hepatitis A or B markers appeared to increase with age. An age-related decline of post-immunization status to hepatitis B was found. The presence of markers for hepatitis A or C or antiHbc antibodies (seen after immunization performed without previous serological assay) seemed to be associated with low status. These data need confirmation by larger and multicentric studies. By this study, the status of various types of hepatitis among health care workers was determined.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, July 1996, Vol.57, No.4, p.251-255. 11 ref.

CIS 96-1882 Magni S., Malacarne M., Vismara R.
Biological risk in sewage treatment plants
Il rischio biologico negli impianti di depurazione [in Italian]
Biological risks for waste-water treatment plant workers are discussed, with particular reference to the Italian situation compared with that existing in some other countries (Sweden, Denmark, USA, Canada, Romania). The relevant provisions of Italian decree D.L. 626/94 (see CIS 96-1531) are also commented on. Two levels of evaluation are emphasized: risk of exposure and risk of infection. It is recommended that epidemiological aspects be also analyzed together with systematic monitoring procedures of the main ways of infection: contact, ingestion and inhalation. Studies concerning hepatitis A and microbial contamination by aerosols are also reviewed.
Biologi Italiani, May 1996, Vol.26, No.5, p.46-52. 27 ref.

CIS 96-1890 Forestié-Auter A.F., Abadia G., Levery G., Besnard C., Dubois F., Thévenas C., Tichet J., Henin D.
I. Hepatitis A and waste water. Vaccination strategy in the workplace. II. Hepatitis and occupational exposure to waste water. Serological prevalence study
I. Hépatite A et eaux usées. Stratégie vaccinale en milieu de travail. II. Hépatite A et exposition professionnelle aux eaux usées. Etude de séroprévalence [in French]
Medical technical data sheet in two parts on the relationship between hepatitis A and waste water in France (vaccination strategies in occupational settings and seropositivity study). Because of the recent availability of a vaccine against hepatitis A, which is both effective and well tolerated, the relevance of vaccination in France and the strategy to be adopted in certain occupations, primarily those with an exposure to waste water, are under review. This prevalence survey supports the proposed vaccination strategy.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 1st Quarter 1996, No.65, p.7-11. 28 ref.

CIS 96-1091 Gutersohn T., Steffen R., Van Damme P., Holdener F., Beutels P.
Hepatitis A infection in aircrews: Risk of infection and cost-benefit analysis of hepatitis A vaccination
Analysis of Swissair medical files for the period 1987 to 1991 revealed 22 cases of hepatitis A among 3,322 crewmembers; all cases occurred in crewmembers who had spent some time on duty in developing countries. For non-immune crewmembers, the overall annual incidence rate was estimated to be 1.53 per 1000, and 12.2 per 1000 during a stay in a high risk country. Male flight attendants had a higher rate than female flight attendants or pilots. Simplified comparison of cost of infection and cost of vaccination indicated that vaccination may be cost-saving to the airline company for both male flight attendants and pilots.
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, Feb. 1996, Vol.67, No.2, p.153-156. 25 ref.

CIS 96-1097 O'Neil J.T.
The bloodborne pathogens standard: A pragmatic approach
This handbook on the prevention of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens is aimed at all workers with potential exposure, with a particular emphasis on exposure in a health-care environment. It is a practical guide to the implementation of the 1991 US Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (CIS 93-371). Contents: the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and its role in the setting of occupational safety and health standards; hepatitis B (biology of the HBV virus, disease outcomes, transmission, epidemiology, vaccination, post-exposure prophylaxis); HIV and AIDS (biology, the HIV antibody test, transmission, occupational case histories, workers with AIDS); the creation of the Standard; detailed explanation of the Standard (exposure control, methods of compliance, HIV and HBV research laboratories and production facilities, HBV vaccination and post-exposure follow-up, hazard communication, record keeping, effective dates); compliance and legal implications; future trends. In annex: full text of the Standard; various recommendations and guidelines for the prevention of bloodborne infections; management of occupational exposure to HIV, including post-exposure use of zidovudine.
Van Nostrand Reinhold, 115 Fifth Ave., New York NY 10003, USA; Chapman & Hall, 2-6 Boundary Row, London SE1 8HN, United Kingdom, 1996. xiii, 319p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price (in Europe): GBP 34.95.

1995

CIS 98-966 Fontana L., Rebora M., Lai P., Pezzano D., Poli A.
Reflections on hepatitis B vaccination of health care workers
Considerazioni sulla vaccinazione anti-epatite B nei dipendenti ospedalieri [in Italian]
Topics: health care personnel; infectious hepatitis; Italy; prophylaxis; vaccination.
Archivio di Scienze del Lavoro, July-Sep. 1995, Vol.11, No.3, p.105-111. 38 ref.

CIS 98-978 Protection of workers from hepatitis B in the workplace
Protection des travailleurs contre l'hépatite B sur les lieux de travail [in French]
Topics: Canada; contagion; data sheet; disinfection of equipment; high-risk groups; infection control; infectious hepatitis; legislation; vaccination.
Occupational Health and Safety Branch, Ministry of Labour, Ontario, Canada, 1995. 6p.

CIS 97-1704 Zuckerman A.J.
Occupational exposure to hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus: A comparative risk analysis
Data on the probability of exposure to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis B and subsequent seroconversion are reviewed. Mortality and morbidity rates associated with both viruses in health care workers are also examined. A model for the analysis of occupational risk for HIV and hepatitis B is presented and shows that quality-adjusted loss in life expectancy is greater after percutaneous exposure to a patient seropositive for hepatitis B than after exposure to a patient with symptomatic HIV infection.
American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.286-289. 20 ref.

CIS 97-1703 Petrosillo N., et al.
The risks of occupational exposure and infection by human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus in the dialysis setting
A survey of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection was carried out among 1002 patients in nine dialysis units. A subsequent 1-year surveillance study of percutaneous injuries and skin and mucous membrane contaminations was carried out among 527 health care workers in the same units. The risk of acquiring infection was calculated to be 4000 and 8000 times lower for HIV than for hepatitis B and C, respectively. Compliance with universal precautions and improvements in the design of needles and dialysis equipment are recommended.
American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.278-285. 43 ref.

CIS 97-1702 Puro V., Petrosillo N., Ippolito G.
Risk of hepatitis C seroconversion after occupational exposures in health care workers
The incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroconversion was studied in health care workers who reported an occupational exposure to blood or other body materials from patients known to be seropositive for HCV. During a two-year period 646 exposure incidents were studied. Four HCV seroconversion were observed after hollow-bore needlestick injuries; no seroconversions occurred after other routes of exposure. Blood-filled needlesticks and patient coinfection with human immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV) was associated with a higher risk of seroconversion.
American Journal of Infection Control, Oct. 1995, Vol.23, No.5, p.273-277. 24 ref.

CIS 96-2303 Romano C., De Luca G.
Protection of workers exposed to biological agents. Study on the prevention of hepatitis B by means of vaccination in a cohort of such workers. Consideration after a 5-year follow-up
Protezione dei lavoratori dagli agenti biologici. Una esperienza di vaccinoprofilassi contro l'epatite B in una popolazione di professionalmente esposti a rischio. Considerazioni dopo 5 anni di follow-up [in Italian]
The results are reported of a cohort study conducted for 5 years in 82 workers exposed to biological hazards (manipulation of sera in a pharmaceutical plant). The workers were vaccinated at scheduled intervals (three doses) against hepatitis B. The effectiveness of their immunization was repeatedly checked in subsequent years by means of an anti-HBs titre assay. In 96.3% of the subjects the result of the assay was positive (HBsAb >10mUI/mL serum level, i.e. the generally accepted cut-off value for a specific positive response). Only three subjects (3.66%) showed no response. To protect these workers, a further administration of vaccine is proposed by some experts. Booster doses 1-2 months after the third dose of vaccine are suggested for workers with anti-HB titres below 10mUI/mL, in order to prolong their immunity against HBV. Repeated serum controls are recommended for all workers every 4-5 years.
Archivio di Scienze del Lavoro, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.11, No.1, p.17-21. 20 ref.

CIS 96-2310 Ficarra M.G., Deli G., Di Liso G., Berloco F., Rizzelli R.
Prevention of infection in dentistry and dental staff habits: Results of a field survey
Prevenzione delle infezioni e comportamenti del personale in odontoiatria: risultati di un'indagine sul campo [in Italian]
This study is based on a questionnaire self administered by dental professionals in order to assess their knowledge of the risks of catching an infectious disease and of preventive measures to be adopted in the work place. Only 47% of the interviewed staff claimed to have a good knowledge of AIDS; while 46% considered their knowledge to be barely sufficient. About 1/4 of the subjects thought it was understandable that some health workers could decline to treat HIV-positive patients. Utilization of protective devices (gloves, masks, goggles) was satisfactory. However, a significant number of these workers had not been vaccinated against hepatitis B. Basic rules of hygiene were observed by a limited number of nurses (only 7% of them washed their hands after each single treatment). A low percentage of workers used an antibacterial preparation after washing their hands. The importance of adequate health training for all health staff is stressed.
Archivio di Scienze del Lavoro, Jan.-Mar. 1995, Vol.11, No.1, p.1-6. 7 ref.

CIS 96-260 Nowak A.K., Shilkin K.B., Jeffrey G.P., Care G.L.
Darkroom hepatitis after exposure to hydroquinone
A communication by Nowak et al, The Lancet, 6 May 1995, reports a case of toxic hepatitis in a hospital radiographer thought to be caused by exposure to hydroquinone fumes and dust from a radiographic developer. A reply by Care, The Lancet, 13 January 1996, describes how hydroquinone dust, vapour and aerosols may form near developers and thus present an inhalation risk.
Lancet, 6 May 1995 and 13 Jan. 1996, Vol.345, No.8958, p.1187. 5 ref. and Vol.347, No.8994, p.121. 3 ref.

CIS 95-1518 Schlosser O., Roudot-Thoraval F.
Occupational exposure to sewage and hepatitis A risk
Exposition professionnelle aux eaux usées et risque d'hépatite virale A [in French]
The availability of a first hepatitis A vaccine in 1992 raised the issue of its use among sewage workers. A cross-sectional study was made to estimate the occupational hazard of hepatitis A comparing the prevalence of antibodies to the hepatitis A virus (HAV) in 110 workers exposed to sewage with the prevalence in 110 non-exposed controls from the same firm, matched for age and educational level. History of jaundice, travelling in endemic areas and duration of occupational exposure were noted. The seroprevalence of HAV antibodies was 52.7% globally, significantly higher in exposed workers (60.9%) than in controls (44.5%) (p<0.02). This seroprevalence increased with age, and was related to educational level in each group. These results emphasize the role of occupational exposure to sewage in HAV infection. The vaccination of exposed workers is to be recommended because of the frequency of the symptomatic form of hepatitis A in adults, sometimes of considerable severity.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1995, Vol.56, No.1, p.23-27. Illus. 23 ref.

1994

CIS 99-1353 A code of practice for hepatitis B and HIV/AIDS in the workplace
Topics: Australia; directive; disposal of harmful waste; high-risk groups; immunodeficiency syndrome; infection control; infectious hepatitis; vaccination; Western Australia.
WorkSafe Western Australia Commission, Westcentre, 1260 Hay Street, West Perth, WA 6005, Australia, Feb. 1994. 20p. Illus. Price: AUD 3.00.

CIS 99-657
International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
IARC monographs on the evaluation of carcinogenic risks to humans - Hepatitis viruses
This monograph presents the views and expert opinions of an IARC working group which met in Lyon, France 8-15 June 1993. Overall evaluation: chronic infection with hepatitis B or hepatitis C virus is carcinogenic to humans; infection with hepatitis D virus is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. Topics: animal experiments; carcinogenic effects; contagion; criteria document; human experiments; IARC; infectious hepatitis; literature survey; liver cancer; race-linked differences; viruses; WHO.
IARC Press, 150 cours Albert Thomas, 69372 Lyon Cedex 08, France, 1994. 286p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Price: CHF 65.00.

CIS 97-828 Hepatitis B as an occupational hazard
Report on hepatitis B as an occupational hazard published by the WHO as part of the workplan of its Regional Office for Europe to achieve Target 25 in the health for all (HFA) strategy (see definition in document). Main contents: hepatitis B - the disease (epidemiology, clinical course; stability and decontamination of the virus); occupational risk; prevention of occupationally-acquired hepatitis B (defining occupational risk, universal precautions, using hepatitis B vaccine in workers at risk; screening; prevention of hepatitis B in self-employed workers; post-exposure prophylaxis; other occupational hazards; cost effectiveness and cost benefit of vaccination of at-risk workers); implementation of successful hepatitis-B prevention programmes in the workplace; current policies for the protection of workers; annexes (status of hepatitis B vaccination in WHO European Member States; the viral hepatitis prevention board; useful names and addresses); glossary.
Occupational Health Programme, WHO Regional Office for Europe, Scherfigvej 8, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark, 1994. 64p. 62 ref.

CIS 96-620 Tomei F., Papaleo B., Leone M., Fantini S., Giuntoli P., Biagi M., Scarselli R., Palmi S., Baccolo T.P.
Study of job-related toxic liver pathology
Studio delle epatopatie tossiche professionali [in Italian]
Workers in industrial waste management may be exposed in a discontinuous and unpredictable way to substances toxic to the liver. Even exposures to low doses can be harmful. 53 workers (mostly males) employed in a toxic industrial waste (including arsenic) treatment plant were studied together with a non-exposed control group of 60 subjects. For all of them a clinical case history questionnaire was filled out, in presence of a doctor, and the following laboratory tests were carried out: complete blood count, GOT, GPT and gamma GT, blood bilirubin (both direct and indirect), alkaline phosphatase, blood proteins, blood creatinine and urine. The obtained results indicate that treatment of industrial wastes may have toxic effects on the liver and that it would be useful to screen workers with procedures like those adopted.
Prevenzione oggi, Jan.-Mar. 1994, Vol.6, No.1, p.95-115. Illus. 153 ref.

CIS 96-72 About Hepatitis B
Training booklet on the dangers of exposure to hepatitis B virus: transmission of hepatitis B; dangers of exposure (particularly in the health-care environment); symptoms; protective measures at work; protection during routine procedures; what to do in the case of an accident; vaccination. Test for self assessment.
Scriptographic Publications Ltd., Channing House, Butts Road, Alton, Hants GU34 1ND, United Kingdom, 1994. 15p. Illus. Price: GBP 0.55-0.94 (depending on number of Scriptographic booklets ordered). ###

CIS 95-2139 Jung D., Konietzko J., Reill-Konietzko G., Muttray A., Zimmermann-Hölz H.J., Doss M., Beck H., Edler L., Kopp-Schneider A.
Porphyrin studies in TCDD-exposed workers
2,3,7,8,-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) has been shown to inhibit uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase activity resulting in chronic hepatic porphyria. From a cross-sectional study of 170 workers in the chemical industry 68 showed elevated coproporphyrin levels, interpreted as secondary coproporphyrinuria. Three persons suffered from chronic hepatic porphyria in subclinical stages. None of the workers showed an overt porphyria cutanea tarda. A low-grade zinc protoporphyrinaemia was observed in three persons. Forty-three of the 170 workers were evaluable for investigating the effect of TCDD on porphyrin levels. No significant correlation was found between TCDD concentration in adipose tissue and the level of uroporphyrin and coproporphyrin. The influence of a chloracne history is described.
Archives of Toxicology, 1994, Vol.68, No.9, p.595-598. 18 ref.

CIS 95-1521 Danenberg H.D., Shoval D.
Risk of viral hepatitis C infection among medical personnel
Hasikun lahadbaqa bedaleqet kaved negifit C (HVC) beqerev haosqim berefua [in Hebrew]
A review. The risk of HCV infection among medical personnel and the consequences of such infection seem to be less severe than for HBV infection. In Israel, at least 0.5% of the sick population carry the hepatitis C virus in their blood; the development of a kit for the identification of HCV in blood makes it easier to identify such carriers.
Harefuah, 1994, Vol.127, No.12, p.533-536. 44 ref.

CIS 95-751 van der Poel C.L., Cuypers H.T., Reesink H.W.
Hepatitis C virus six years on
Data on the hepatitis C virus (HCV) are reviewed. Characterization of the virus is discussed along with diagnosis, epidemiology, transmission, prevention, natural course and clinical manifestations and therapy. Occupational risk factors include needle-stick accidents among health care workers. Intervention with anti-HCV passive immunization is not available and there are no data about the feasibility of early treatment with interferon in such cases; other vaccination studies are underway.
Lancet, 26 Nov. 1994, Vol.344, No.8935, p.1475-1479. Illus. 35 ref.

CIS 95-344 Jacques P., Moens G., Van Damme P., Goubau P., Vranckx R., Steeno J., Muylle L., Desmyter J.
Increased risk for hepatitis A among female day nursery workers in Belgium
Occupational Medicine, Dec. 1994, Vol.44, No.5, p.259-261. 17 ref. ###

CIS 95-160 Society of Occupational Medicine, Industrial Hygiene and Ergonomics of Western France - Meeting of 22-23 October 1992
Société de médecine du travail, d'hygiène industrielle et d'ergonomie de l'Ouest - Séance des 22 et 23 octobre 1992 [in French]
Main subjects treated at the meetings of 22 and 23 Oct. 1992 of the Society of Occupational Medicine, Industrial Hygiene and Ergonomics of Western France: economic outlook for road transport in France - repercussions on working conditions; selection criteria for tramway drivers; study of simple auditive and visual reaction time in bus drivers in Abidjan (Ivory Coast); adequate techniques for the monitoring of chrome plating workers: air sampling or determination in urine; assessment of exposure to noise during random events - two methods, two sets of results; early osteonecrosis and determination of the aptitude to work - study of one case; vaccination against hepatitis in the workplace; multidisciplinary approach to the design of workplaces; ergonomic approach applied to two teams of operators using the same machinery for post-driving and lifting; a pragmatic approach to workplace acoustics; drinking and driving: an experiment; sleep apnoeas: repercussions in the transport sector; cardiac rhythm disorders in a truck driver - medico-legal comments on one case.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, 1994, Vol.55, No.1, p.53-70.

CIS 94-1771 Zuckerman J., Clewley G., Griffiths P., Cockroft A.
Prevalence of hepatitis C antibodies in clinical health-care workers
The prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies among health-care workers at one hospital in the United Kingdom and among source patients in reported blood-exposure incidents at the same hospital was determined. Results suggest that there has not been significant occupational transmission of HCV to these workers despite the high prevalence of HCV among source patients. However, the fact that HCV (and HBV) infection in a number of source patients was not known at the time of the incident argues in favour of universal precautions for blood and body fluids.
Lancet, 25 June 1994, Vol.343, No.8913, p.1618-1620. 18 ref.

1993

CIS 94-2115
National Occupational Health and Safety Commission (Worksafe Australia)
Human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B and the workplace
These two consensus statements provide advice on education and policies regarding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B in the workplace. The code of practice provides guidelines for health care workers and others at risk of the transmission of these diseases. Contents: definitions; employee consultation; mode of transmission of HIV and hepatitis B; control program for the prevention of transmission; risk identification and assessment; risk control (engineering controls, safe work practices, information and training, personal protective equipment); monitoring and evaluation; provision of first aid; management of employee exposures to blood or body fluids.
Australian Government Publishing Service, GPO Box 84, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia, Nov. 1993. vii, 65p. 71 ref.

CIS 94-1770 Frölich J., Zeller I.
Risk of hepatitis A infection among workers of a large sewage plant operating association
Hepatitis-A-Infektionsrisiko bei den Mitarbeitern einer grossen Kläranlagenbetreibergenossenschaft [in German]
Antibodies against hepatitis A infection (anti-HAV) and anti-HAV-IgM were determined in 408 workers exposed to waste water in a sewage treatment plant and in 202 non-exposed workers. None of the workers were anti-HAV-IgM positive. In comparison with the control group, a significantly higher number of sewage plant workers were anti-HAV positive. For exposed workers over 40yrs old an odds ratio of 1.8 was obtained. Hepatitis A immunization is recommended for workers in sewage treatment plants.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, Nov. 1993, Vol.28, No.11, p.503-505. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 94-1769 Ohlendorf R.
Risk of hepatitis A infection in sewer maintenance and sewage purification plant workers
Hepatitis-A Infektionsrisiko bei Kanalunterhaltungs- und Kläranlagenarbeitern [in German]
Sanitation workers exposed to sewage were subjected to serological examinations to determine the presence of anti-HAV-IgG. All 15 sewer maintenance workers and all 27 employees of a sewage treatment plant of a German municipality were included. Sewer maintenance workers with more than five years of exposure were found to be HAV-positive while among the group with less than five years seniority, only one was HAV-positive. Of the employees of the sewage treatment plant, all with more than 11 years of exposure were HAV-positive and all those with less than five years seniority were HAV-negative.
Arbeitsmedizin - Sozialmedizin - Umweltmedizin, July 1993, Vol.28, No.7, p.305-307. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 94-1758 Woodruff B.A., Moyer L.A., O'Rourke K.M., Margolis H.S.
Blood exposure and the risk of hepatitis B virus infection in firefighters
This survey assessed personal and occupational risk factors among uniformed fire department employees by a self-administered questionnaire and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection status by serological testing. Overall, 46 of 592 employees had past or current HBV infection. Employees reporting blood contact with skin had been infected more often than employees without this exposure. Prevalence of infection did not differ by age, years on the job, or job duties. The adjusted prevalence of HBV infection among male employees was not significantly different from its prevalence in American men.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Oct. 1993, Vol.35, No.10, p.1048-1054. 13 ref.

CIS 94-1075 Hallauer J., Kane M., McCloy E.
Viral Hepatitis Prevention Board
Eliminating hepatitis B as an occupational hazard
Proceedings of an international conference on hepatitis B as an occupational hazard held in Vienna, Austria, 10-12 March 1993. Papers are presented under the following headings: hepatitis B and occupational risk; prevention of hepatitis B in the workplace (safe work practices, vaccination, education and successful prevention programmes); economic implications of hepatitis B in the workplace; implementation of effective prevention programmes in various countries; current policies and the way forward. Summaries of regional workshops provide information on the current situation in a number of countries.
Medical Imprint, 22 Lancaster Gate, London W2 3LY, United Kingdom, 1993. 114p. Bibl.ref.

CIS 94-887 French Society of Occupational Medicine - 24 October 1992 Meeting
Société française de médecine du travail - Séance du 24 octobre 1992 [in French]
Summary of papers presented at the 24 Oct. 1992 Meeting of the French Society of Occupational Medicine. Titles: "Infos Risques": a documentation service on occupational and industrial hazards - survey of 18 months of operation; a contribution to the study of lung fibrogenicity of right and left isomers of α-quartz (natural quartz); contribution of analytical transmission electron microscopy to the assessment of exposure to mineral particles in humans; bronchial non-specific hyperreactivity and occupational exposure to mineral oils; a case of toxic hepatitis caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4); asbestos-related round atelectasis.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1993, Vol.54, No.5, p.440-443.

CIS 94-1072 Wood R.C., MacDonald K.L., White K.E., Hedberg C.W., Hanson M., Osterholm M.T.
Risk factors for lack of detectable antibody following hepatitis B vaccination of Minnesota health care workers
A total of 595 health care workers who had received hepatitis B vaccine underwent postvaccination testing for hepatitis B antibodies within 6 months of receiving the third dose of vaccine. Five variables were independently associated with a lack of antibodies: vaccine brand, smoking status, sex, age and body mass index. Results indicate that certain populations of health care workers are at increased risk of not responding to hepatitis B vaccination. Further studies evaluating the immunogenicity of currently available hepatitis B vaccines in persons at high risk for primary vaccine failure are needed.
Journal of the American Medical Association, 22-29 Dec. 1993, Vol.270, No.24, p.2935-2939. Illus. 39 ref.

CIS 94-1071 Roome A.J., Walsh S.J., Cartter M.L., Hadler J.L.
Hepatitis B vaccine responsiveness in Connecticut public safety personnel
A survey was made of levels of hepatitis B antibody present among public safety personnel who had completed vaccination 1 to 6 months earlier. Of 258 individuals tested, 11.9% were found to have no or inadequate levels of antibody. The frequency of inadequate level of antibody increased significantly with age. Smoking, extreme obesity and increasing time interval since completing the vaccine series were also associated with inadequate levels of antibody. It is concluded that routine immunization of public safety personnel should include selective use of postvaccine testing.
Journal of the American Medical Association, 22-29 Dec. 1993, Vol.270, No.24, p.2931-2934. 15 ref.

CIS 94-886 Society of Occupational Medicine and Hygiene - Meetings of 13 Oct., 10 Nov., 8 Dec. 1992 and 12 Jan. 1993
Société de médecine et d'hygiène du travail - Séances des 13 octobre, 10 novembre, 8 décembre 1992 et 12 janvier 1993 [in French]
Themes of papers presented at the meetings of 13 Oct., 10 Nov., 8 Dec. 1992 and 12 Jan. 1993 of the Society of Occupational Medicine and Hygiene (France): the clothing industry in the centre of Paris (recommendation to include arthrosis of the navicular bone of the hand in the French Schedule as an occupational disease among garment-cutters); protection of garbage workers against risks due to medical refuse present in domestic waste; occupational lead poisoning in connection with the renovation of an older building; cholinesterases: value of isolated variations of their levels; one case of thallium poisoning in a mineralogy laboratory; a case of chronic transfusion hepatitis affecting a nurse; occupational stress: in-plant experimental approach; sleep apnoea and aptitude to work in fire brigades; comments on the Decree of 29 May 1992 pertaining to the prohibition of smoking at work.
Archives des maladies professionnelles, 1993, Vol.54, No.7, p.587-606.

CIS 94-308 Stayner L.T., Dannenberg A.L., Bloom T., Thun M.
Excess hepatobiliary cancer mortality among munitions workers exposed to dinitrotoluene
The association between dinitrotoluene (DNT) exposure and increased risk of cancers of the liver and biliary tract was studied through an analysis of the mortality experience of exposed workers (n=4,989) and unexposed workers (n=7,436) at a study facility between 1949 and 1980. An excess of hepatobiliary cancer was observed among workers exposed to DNT. The SMR for hepatobiliary cancer was 2.67 (six cases) based upon comparison with the US population, and 3.88 based upon comparison with controls. The study was limited by the small number of workers with long-term DNT exposure, and by the lack of quantitative information on exposure to DNT and other chemicals. Nonetheless, the excess in hepatobiliary cancer mortality observed among DNT-exposed workers in this study is similar to findings from animal studies.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, Mar. 1993, Vol.35, No.3, p.291-296. 16 ref.

CIS 93-2067 Kudesia G., Briggs D., Donaldson M., Woolrich M., Raper J.
Hepatitis B prevalence in local authority employees
Prevalence of hepatitis B infection was determined in 420 employees from three local authorities by testing for hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc). Five (1.2 per cent) were positive: this included a hepatitis BsAg carrier, three with antibody to hepatitis BsAg (anti-HBs) and one who had only anti-HBc. The prevalence of hepatitis B was not significantly different (P>0.05) from a control group of blood donors. However, four out of five anti-HBc positive individuals worked with mentally or physically handicapped individuals or those discharged into the community after long-term institutionalised care.
Occupational Medicine, Aug. 1993, Vol.43, No.3. p.129-131. 8 ref.

CIS 93-2073 Longbottom H.M., Cox K., Sokas R.K.
Body fluid exposure in an urban tertiary care medical centre
The increasing prevalence of the human immunodeficiency (HIV) and hepatitis B virus has focused attention on the risks that health care workers face when exposed to potentially infective body fluids. This study establishes a profile of 320 parenteral exposure incidents and 47 exposure incidents to mucous membranes or abraded skin, reported in a medical centre between July 1988 and July 1990. It was found that 102 (27.8%) of the incidents involved an HIV-positive patient, that 130 (35.4%) of the reporting employees had completed their hepatitis B vaccination at the time of the incident, and that, although the majority of incidents involved employees with patient contact, service workers also were represented (4.6%, n=17). Factors contributing to incidents included recapping (10.9%, n=40), full needle-boxes (7.6%, n=28), and inappropriate disposal (13.1%, n=48). A health fair featuring walk-in hepatitis B immunisation attracted 260 participants, 90% of whom completed the entire immunisation series. This significantly improved the immunisation rate of employees subsequently reporting body fluid exposure.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1993, Vol.23, No.5, p.703-710. Illus. 14 ref.

1992

CIS 94-1994 Iwasa T., Abe T., Hiramatsu K., Kubori S., Inoue N., Fujishiro K., Koga M.
Fulminant hepatitis after the inhalation of dichloropropanols
Jikuroropropanoru bakuro go ni okotta gekishō kan'en no ichi rei [in Japanese]
A 59-year-old worker in a chemical plant developed general malaise, nausea and vomiting several hours after cleaning a tank that had contained dichloropropanols. He had no previous history of liver trouble. When the victim was admitted to the hospital, his liver was swollen and the results of blood analysis showed several abnormalities. In spite of therapy, the patient died on the fifth day after the accident. Because 1,3-dichloro-2-propanol and 2,3-dichloro-1-propanol were detected in the blood samples taken at the time of admission, the fatal fulminant hepatitis was attributed to exposure to these compounds. This seems to be the first report of such a case.
Journal of UEOH, 1 Mar. 1992, Vol.14, No.1, p.67-71. Illus. 2 ref.

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