Diseases caused by

Chemicals

June 01. 2024

Veterinary Medicine
Diseases caused by chemicals, often resulting from
exposure to toxic or hazardous substances, can
affect various body systems.
Respiratory Diseases
Neurological Diseases
Kidney and Liver Diseases
Cancers
Blood Disorders
  Respiratory Diseases

1. Asthma:
Occupational asthma can be triggered by exposure to
substances like!
 Isocyanates: Found in paints, varnishes, and foams,
isocyanates are one of the leading causes of
occupational asthma.
 Cleaning Agents: Bleach, ammonia, and other strong
cleaning agents can irritate the respiratory system.
 Pesticides: Inhalation of pesticide fumes can trigger
asthma attacks.
 Solvents: Used in paints, adhesives, and coatings,
solvents can cause respiratory issues.
 Dust and Fumes: Wood dust, metal fumes, and other
particulate matter can aggravate asthma symptoms.
 Cont…
2. Chronic Bronchitis:
Prolonged inhalation of irritants such lung fibrosis
as smoke, dust, or chemical fumes
can cause chronic bronchitis.
3. Asbestosis:
Caused by inhaling asbestos fibers,
leading to lung fibrosis.

fumes
 Skin Diseases
1. Contact Dermatitis:
by direct contact with irritants or allergens such as
detergents, solvents, or acids.
 Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Occurs when chemicals
directly damage the skin. Common irritants include
acids, alkalis, solvents, and detergents.
 Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A delayed allergic
reaction to a chemical. Common allergens include
nickel, latex ‫الستیک خام‬, fragrances ‫عطرها‬, and certain
preservatives.
2. Chemical Burns:
Caused by exposure to strong acids, bases, and other
corrosive substances. Chemical burns can damage
skin tissues and lead to severe pain and scarring.
Cont…
3. Urticaria (Hives):
Can be triggered by direct skin contact with certain
chemicals.
Hives (‫ )کندوها‬appear as red, itchy welts on the skin.
‫جوش های خارش دار روی پوست‬
4. Photosensitivity:
Certain chemicals can cause the skin to become more
sensitive to sunlight, leading to rashes and sunburn-
like symptoms.
This can be caused by chemicals in medications,
cosmetics, or industrial compounds
Cont…
5. Hyperpigmentation:
Exposure to some chemicals can cause
changes in skin color, leading to areas
of darkened skin. This can be a result
of inflammation or a direct effect of
the chemical on melanocytes.
Hyperpigmentation
6. Acneiform Eruptions:
Certain chemicals, particularly those
found in some industrial oils and
greases, can cause acne-like lesions.

Acne
Neurological Diseases
1. Heavy Metal Poisoning: Lead, mercury, and
arsenic can cause neurological damage, including
cognitive deficits and peripheral neuropathy.
2. Organic Solvent Neurotoxicity: Exposure to
solvents like toluene or hexane can cause headaches,
dizziness, and long-term cognitive impairment.
By understanding the risks associated with chemical
exposure and implementing appropriate safety
measures, many of these diseases can be prevented.
 Chemicals and Their Neurological Effects
• Lead: Causes encephalopathy, cognitive deficits,
and peripheral neuropathy.
• Mercury: Associated with tremors, cognitive
deficits, and peripheral neuropathy (Minamata
disease).
• Arsenic: Causes encephalopathy, peripheral
neuropathy, and can affect cognitive function.
• Pesticides (organophosphates): Can cause acute
poisoning leading to muscle twitching, weakness,
and long-term cognitive and motor deficits.
Cont…

• Solvents (toluene, xylene): Linked to chronic

neurobehavioral disorders and cognitive decline.
• Manganese: Chronic exposure leads to manganism,
characterized by Parkinson-like symptoms.
• Carbon Monoxide: Acute poisoning can cause
neurological damage, including memory loss,
confusion, and motor deficits.
Kidney and Liver Diseases
1. Chemical-induced Hepatitis: Chemicals like carbon
tetrachloride and chloroform can cause liver
inflammation and damage.
2. Nephropathy: Heavy metals like cadmium can lead
to kidney damage.
Cont…

Kidney Diseases
1. Nephrotoxins: Nephrotoxins are substances that can
cause kidney damage. Common nephrotoxins include:
• Medications: Certain drugs like NSAIDs, antibiotics
(aminoglycosides), and chemotherapy agents can cause
nephrotoxicity.
• Heavy Metals: Lead, cadmium, and mercury exposure
can result in kidney damage. Chronic exposure can lead
to conditions like chronic kidney disease.
• Industrial Chemicals: Solvents like trichloroethylene
and ethylene glycol are known to cause kidney damage.
Cont…

Treatment:
• Acute Cases: Immediate removal of the
toxin and supportive care (dialysis for
kidney failure, liver transplant for severe
liver damage).
• Chronic Cases: Long-term management
may include medications, lifestyle
changes, and ongoing monitoring.
 General Symptoms of Chemical
Exposure
1. Respiratory System:
• Irritation: Coughing, wheezing, shortness of
breath, chest tightness.
• Chronic Effects: Chronic bronchitis, pulmonary
fibrosis, and lung cancer.
2. Nervous System:
• Acute Symptoms: Headaches, dizziness,
confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness.
• Chronic Effects: Memory loss, cognitive deficits
‫نقایص شناختی‬, peripheral neuropathy (tingling
‫گزگز‬, numbness ‫)بی حسی‬.
Cont…

3. Cardiovascular System:
• Acute Effects: Palpitations(extra or irregular
heartbeat), arrhythmias, chest pain.
• Chronic Effects: Hypertension, heart disease.
4. Digestive System:
• Irritation: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain,
diarrhea.
• Liver Damage: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin
and eyes), dark urine, pale stools.
Cont…

5. Renal (Kidney) System:

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Reduced urine
output, swelling in legs and ankles, confusion,
fatigue.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Persistent
swelling, high blood pressure, chronic fatigue.
6. Skin:
• Irritation: Redness, itching, rashes, blisters.
• Chronic Effects: Dermatitis, skin cancer.
Cont…

• Hematologic System:
• Anemia: Fatigue, weakness, pallor.
• Leukopenia/Thrombocytopenia: Increased
susceptibility to infections, easy bruising, prolonged
bleeding.
General treatments for disease to
chemicals
1. Removal from Exposure
Immediate Actions:
• Stop Exposure: Remove the individual from the source of
exposure immediately.
• Decontamination: In cases of skin contact, wash the
affected area with soap and water. If the chemical was
ingested, follow poisoning guidelines (do not induce
vomiting unless instructed by a professional).
2. Supportive Care
Basic Supportive Measures:
• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration to support kidney
function and help eliminate toxins.
• Rest: Allow the body to recover with plenty of rest.
Cont…

3. Specific Treatments
Kidney Disease:
• Fluid Management: IV fluids to maintain hydration
and electrolyte balance.
• Dialysis: For severe kidney damage or acute kidney
injury, dialysis may be necessary to remove toxins
from the blood.
• Medications: Diuretics to increase urine output,
medications to control blood pressure, and drugs to
treat electrolyte imbalances.
Cont…
Liver Disease:
• Nutritional Support: A balanced diet,
sometimes supplemented with vitamins and
minerals.
• Medications: Drugs to manage specific
conditions like hepatitis (antivirals), cirrhosis
(diuretics, beta-blockers), and pain relief
(avoiding hepatotoxic drugs like
acetaminophen).
• Liver Transplant: In cases of severe liver
failure, a liver transplant may be necessary.
 Cont…
4. Detoxification
• Chelation Therapy:
Used for heavy metal poisoning
(e.g., lead, mercury). Chelating
agents bind to metals and facilitate
their excretion.
• Activated Charcoal:
Administered in cases of certain
types of ingested poisonings to
absorb toxins in the gastrointestinal
tract.
Cont…
5. Long-term Management
Chronic Kidney Disease:
• Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes (low-
sodium, low-protein diet), regular exercise, and
smoking cessation.
• Medications: To control blood pressure {ACE
inhibitors(Captopril), Angiotensin receptor blockers
(ARBs)}, manage diabetes, and reduce cholesterol
levels.
• Regular Monitoring: Frequent check-ups to
monitor kidney function and adjust treatments as
needed.
Cont…

Chronic Liver Disease:

• Lifestyle Changes: Abstaining from alcohol,
maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding
hepatotoxic medications.
• Medications: To manage complications like
portal hypertension (beta-blockers), fluid
retention (diuretics), and encephalopathy
(lactulose).
• Surveillance: Regular monitoring for liver
cancer in patients with cirrhosis or chronic
hepatitis.
Cont…
6. Rehabilitation and Support ‫توانبخشی و پشتیبانی‬
• Occupational Health:
• Workplace Safety: Implementing safety measures and
protocols to reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Health Education: Training workers on the risks and
safety practices related to chemical exposure.
• Psychological Support:
• Counseling: Providing mental health support for patients
dealing with chronic illness and its impact on their lives.
• Support Groups: Connecting patients with support
groups for shared experiences and coping strategies.
Preventive Measures

• Vaccinations:
• For preventable causes of liver disease
(hepatitis A and B vaccines).
• Regular Screening:
• For early detection of organ damage in
individuals at high risk of chemical exposure.
• Education:
• Raising awareness about the risks of
chemical exposure and promoting safe
handling practices.
Liver Diseases
1. Hepatotoxins: Hepatotoxins are substances that can
cause liver damage. Common hepatotoxins include:
• Medications: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) in high doses,
certain antibiotics, and anti-seizure medications.
• Alcohol: Chronic alcohol consumption is a major
cause of liver disease.
• Industrial Chemicals: Carbon tetrachloride, vinyl
chloride, and certain pesticides can cause liver
damage.
• Natural Toxins: Aflatoxins produced by certain fungi
on grains and nuts.
Cancers
1. Lung Cancer: Linked to exposure to
carcinogens such as asbestos, radon, and silica
dust.
2. Bladder Cancer: Associated with exposure
to aromatic amines found in the dye and
rubber industries.
3. Leukemia: Benzene exposure is a known
risk factor for leukemia.
Blood Disorders
1. Anemia:
Chemicals like benzene can interfere with
bone marrow function, leading to decreased
red blood cell production.
2. Aplastic Anemia:
A severe condition where the bone marrow
fails to produce sufficient blood cells, which
can be caused by exposure to certain
pesticides and solvents.
Prevention and Safety Measures
1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Using gloves, masks, and protective clothing to minimize skin and
inhalation exposure.
2. Proper Ventilation:
Ensuring good airflow in workplaces where chemicals are used to
reduce inhalation risks.
3. Education and Training:
Regular training for workers on the risks associated with
chemicals and the correct handling procedures.
4. Regulatory Compliance:
Following guidelines and regulations set by agencies like
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(‫)اداره ایمنی و بهداشت حرفه ای‬
Environmental Protection Agency.
Specific Examples of
Chemicals and
Associated Diseases
1. Asbestos

Is a group of fibrous minerals

used to strengthen and fireproof
materials. Inhaled asbestos
fibers become trapped in the
body Causes asbestosis (chronic
lung condition), mesothelioma (a
type of cancer in the lining that
covers the outer surface of some of
the body's organs), and lung
cancer.
2. Benzene

liquid chemical at room temperature. It is used

primarily as a solvent in the chemical,
Associated with leukemia and bone
marrow disorders.
 3. Lead plumbum (Pb)
Lead and lead compounds have been
used in paint, car batteries, ceramics(a
material that is neither metallic nor
organic. It may be crystalline, glassy
or both crystalline and glassy.
Ceramics are typically hard and
chemically non-reactive ), pipes and
plumbing materials, solders, gasoline,
batteries, ammunition and cosmetics.
Can cause neurological damage,
hypertension, and kidney disease.
4. Mercury(Hg)

Is the closest planet to the Sun, and

the smallest planet in our solar
system.
Mercury is the only metal on earth
that is liquid at room temperature.
Liquid mercury is so slippery that it
will fall your skin if you try to hold
it. It is so heavy that 2 tablespoons of
mercury weighs about one pound!
Causes neurotoxicity and kidney
damage.
5. Pesticides
Pesticides can cause a range of diseases and
health issues, depending on the type of pesticide
and the level of exposure.
1. Cancers
 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Strongly linked to
exposure to certain herbicides, such as glyphosate.
 Leukemia: Linked to exposure to pesticides like
benzene-based compounds.
 Prostate Cancer: Some studies suggest a link
between pesticide exposure and increased risk of
prostate cancer.
 Lung Cancer: Linked to exposure to certain
pesticides in occupational settings.
 Cont…
2. Neurological Disorders
 Parkinson’s Disease: Exposure to pesticides,
particularly insecticides and herbicides, has been
associated with an increased risk of developing
Parkinson’s disease.
 Cognitive Decline: Chronic exposure to pesticides
can lead to reduced cognitive function and increased
risk of dementia.
 Peripheral Neuropathy: Certain pesticides can
damage the peripheral nerves, leading to numbness,
tingling, and pain.
Cont…
3. Respiratory Issues
 Asthma: Exposure to pesticides,
especially in agricultural settings, has been
linked to the development and
exacerbation of asthma.
 Chronic Bronchitis: Pesticide exposure
can lead to chronic respiratory issues,
including bronchitis.
 Cont…
4. Reproductive and Developmental Effects
 Birth Defects: Prenatal exposure to pesticides
can increase the risk of birth defects and
developmental issues in children.
 Reduced Fertility: Pesticides can affect both
male and female reproductive systems,
leading to reduced fertility and other
reproductive issues.
Cont…
5. Endocrine Disruption
 Hormonal Imbalances: Pesticides can act
as endocrine disruptors, interfering with
the body’s hormonal system and leading to
various health problems.
 Thyroid Issues: Exposure to certain
pesticides has been linked to thyroid
dysfunction and diseases.
Cont…
6. Skin Conditions
 Contact Dermatitis: Direct contact with
pesticides can cause skin irritation and
allergic reactions.
 Chemical Burns: Some pesticides can
cause severe skin burns upon direct
contact.
 Cont…
7. Other Conditions
 Kidney Damage: Chronic exposure to certain
pesticides
 Liver Damage: Pesticides can be toxic to the liver,
leading to conditions such as hepatitis and cirrhosis.
To minimize the risk of these diseases, it is
essential to follow safety guidelines when
handling pesticides, including the use of personal
protective equipment (PPE), proper ventilation,
and adherence to usage instructions and
regulations.
Dialysis