NEWS, Science, & Links Summary for the W/E 6/6/2008

June 7, 2008

Beware! Household dust is highly toxic
http://www.hindustantimes.com/storypage/storypage.aspx?id=8069c063-9b49-43a7-b5c8-f6a85fb4c74f&MatchID1=4698&TeamID1=2&TeamID2=5&MatchType1=1&SeriesID1=1185&PrimaryID=4698&Headline=Beware!+Household+dust+is+highly+toxic

June 6, 2008

Toxic soil at schools?
http://www.winknews.com/features/education/19614589.html

Health Risk in Dental Fillings Confirmed
http://www.thedailygreen.com/print-this/environmental-news/latest/mecurdy-dental-fillings-47060604

Lupus: Up close and personal
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/story.html?id=489a4ee0-057e-4303-b558-3edb18c95eba

In shift, FDA says mercury fillings may harm some
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/world_us/20080606_In_shift__FDA_says_mercury_fillings_may_harm_some.html

Food irradiation: Grosser than you think.
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/everything_ewg/~3/306133857/food-irradiation-grosser-than.htm

Companies must act fast to tap state green grants
http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/stories/2008/06/09/focus2.html

Mercury poisoning linked to dolphin deaths
http://www.theage.com.au/national/mercury-poisoning-linked-to-dolphin-deaths-20080605-2mbw.html

June 5, 2008

Link between lead exposure, crime is quite real
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080605/EDIT02/806050316/1090

County OKs chemical crackdown
http://www.dailyprogress.com/cdp/news/local/article/county_oks_chemical_crackdown/22969/

Environmental pollution reaches alarming level
http://www.nation.com.pk/pakistan-news-newspaper-daily-english-online/Regional/Karachi/06-Jun-2008/Environmental-pollution-reaches-alarming-level

Methylmercury Pause: Study Suggests Long Latency for Neurotoxicity
http://foodconsumer.org/7777/8888/Agri_amp_Environ_41/060506352008_Methylmercury_Pause.shtml

Be Careful: Household Dust Contains Lead
http://www.themedguru.com/articles/be_careful_household_dust_contains_lead-7324201.html

Research Finds High Concentrations Of Chemicals in Pets
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/everything_ewg/~3/306223050/26665

Hawaii Schools Could Receive $20.5 Million In New 'Green' Construction
Grants
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?474fb4e3-1ee3-4178-9cb5-d261cd511d9e

Advocates call for new powers for green whistleblowers
http://www.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=87cfe465-0c2d-447b-927e-fd147276d825

Secret Ingredients
http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/secretingredients/archives/140529.asp

Mercury fillings pose health risks, FDA warns
http://www.cbc.ca/consumer/story/2008/06/05/dental-amalgam.html

'Silver' mercury fillings may harm pregnant women
http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/features_julieshealthclub/2008/06/silver-mercury.html

US FDA Admits Risks of Mercury Dental Fillings, Settles Lawsuit
http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/us-fda-admits-risks-of-mercury-dental-fillings-settles-lawsuit,422503.shtml

EU to review regulations on nanomaterials
http://www.smartbrief.com/news/snm/storyDetails.jsp?issueid=22C892D0-DC9D-4D89-B6B3-98A2A1DF6AC1&copyid=7A956ACE-9511-4CD4-8A4B-125813FD3438&lmcid=

Mobile Phones: Children are at special risk, Russian experts reveal
http://www.wddty.com/03363800369888479712/mobile-phones-children-are-at-special-risk-russian-experts-reveal.html

Forestry slams chemical spraying changes
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/06/05/2266540.htm?section=business

Chemical spraying rules rile farmers
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/06/05/2265883.htm

FDA: Possible Risk From Dental Fillings
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/news/20080605/fda-dental-filling-risk-possible

City launches chemical-free park
http://www.durangotelegraph.com/telegraph.php?inc=/08-06-05/quick.htm

June 4, 2008

Tracking plastic's breakdown products
http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2008/jun/science/jp_plasticizers.html

Newly Pregnant? Here's an 8-Step Crash Course in Going Green
http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/everything_ewg/~3/306269000/26669

Antibacterial wipes can spread MRSA
http://www.nursingtimes.net/clinicalnews/2008/06/antibacterial_wipes_can_spread_mrsa.html;jsessionid=7ED33BDA194F3A1701FD21771B7BF363?tmcsTrackingInfo=$_22z0uJthux9vmSQKc8foZIXNVLZZd9pusZSGP1L8KVCuaFibuyW2SsoTbaUGErigP1KBBjFWO4$

WTC Responders' Health Problems Not Abating, Expert Says
http://www.ohsonline.com/articles/63742/

AMSA PharmFree Scorecard Grades U.S. Medical Schools On Conflict-of-Interest
Policies - Only 7 Receive An 'A'
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/109769.php

Brain's Gray Cells Appear To Be Changed By Trauma Of Major Events Like 9/11
Attack, Study Suggests
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080603184256.htm

Pollinators can't smell flowers for air pollution
http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSN0430376020080604?feedType=RSS&feedName=environmentNews&sp=true

Mercury teeth fillings may harm some: U.S. FDA
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080604/hl_nm/fda_dentalfillings_dc

Long-term Pesticide Exposure May Increase Risk of Diabetes
http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jun2008/niehs-04.htm

Libraries switch off wi-fi internet
http://www.connexionfrance.com/news_articles.php?id=173

WiFi in Libraries Blamed for Health Maladies in Paris
http://chronicle.com/wiredcampus/article/3058/wifi-in-libraries-blamed-for-health-maladies-in-paris

CFL bulbs nay trigger migraines
http://www.ktvb.com/news/health/stories/ktvbn-jun0408-cfl_bulbs_migraines.5df6cfa2.html

ECHA office draws chemical industry lobbyists to Finland and Helsinki
http://www.hs.fi/english/article/ECHA+office+draws+chemical+industry+lobbyists+to+Finland+and+Helsinki/1135236899084

June 3, 2008

Tap Water Risky For Preggies - A Study
http://www.topnews.in/tap-water-risky-preggies-study-245513

Pesticides, chemicals can cause penile defects, toxicologist warns
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1212041468664&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FPrinter

CFL bulbs may trigger migraines
http://www.nwcn.com/health/stories/NW_060308HEB_lightbulbs_headaches_KC.5b6b4570.html

University study finds toxic chemicals linked to diabetes
http://www.mlive.com/features/kzgazette/index.ssf?/base/features-0/1212504639308360.xml&coll=7

Toxic FEMA Trailers May See Comeback in 2008 Hurricane Season
http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/eco-friendly/fema-trailers-2008-hurricanes-460603

Toxic trailers will be used again if need be, says FEMA
http://www.grist.org/news/2008/06/03/fema

U.S. group wants colouring removed from food
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080603/food_colouring_080603/20080603?hub=Health

Experts Revive Debate Over Cellphones and Cancer
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/03/health/03well.html

USDA says Tyson used antibiotics on chicken
Poultry producer being sued by competitors for labeling practices
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24956860/

Babies exposed to chlorinated water at risk of heart problems
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2066421/Babies-exposed-to-chlorinated-water-at-risk-of-heart-problems.html

June 2, 2008

Being Born Small, Early Raises Autism Risk
http://www.statesman.com/health/content/shared-auto/healthnews/auti/615992.html

Some question if using chlorine to disinfect water is best method
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-toxic2water_02pro.ART.State.Edition1.465bd53.html

Milking It
http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0602/081.html?partner=email

2 teens injured huffing still critical
http://www.jconline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080602/NEWS09/80602038

Report: Black, poor children face higer toxic air risks
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/article_4783.shtml

Bisphenol A Under Scrutiny
http://pubs.acs.org/cen/government/86/8622gov1.html

Vaccine debate: Are we hurting our kids?
http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080602/NEWS/806020315

June 1, 2008

Parent Protest Links Autism To Vaccines
http://www.koin.com/content/news/topstories/story.aspx?content_id=f62fd152-a2c3-4893-932b-9fe7566746bc

MCS - A Real Disease
http://brockovichivillage.com/node/182

A risk to vaccinate? Some parents are asking that as concerns are raised
over links with autism
http://www.heraldonline.com/front/story/594142.html

Hundreds of Dallas County industrial sites pose a hidden risk to nearby
schools, residential neighborhoods
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/stories/DN-toxic1main_01pro.ART.State.Edition2.46cae3c.html

Hundreds attend schools bordering chemical sites
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews

Chemical at Deerfield cosmetics plant sickens firefighters
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/broward/story/553747.html

May 31, 2008

Fibromyalgia Pain Linked With Central Nervous System Disorder
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/05/080531091216.htm

Listening to cellphone warnings
http://www.thestar.com/Business/article/434412

May 30, 2008

The Strange Case of the Missing Microfiber
It's green, it's healthful, and it works. So why is this cleaning textile
practically shut out of the U.S. market?
http://www.businessweek.com/innovate/content/may2008/id20080530_961501.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_innovation+%2Bamp%3B+design

Tenant Wants Mold Problem Fixed
http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/19405989.html

"Worst Vaccine Bill Ever" Seeks Compulsory Shots For All Children
http://www.granitebaypt.com/detail/85754.html

Pet-flea products linked to autism
http://www.straight.com/article-148170/petflea-products-linked-autism

GreenTips | Open the windows
http://www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=51&a=345308

Death downwind
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/32760/title/Death_downwind

May 29, 2008

Keeping Chlorine Out of the Pool
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/29/garden/29pool.html?_r=1&oref=slogin&pagewanted=print

Eye on Safety as Formaldehyde Use Increases
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=90957184

Can Certain Hairstyles and Smells Make a Headache Worse?
http://www.newsweek.com/id/139119

EPA limits use of toxic rat poisons
http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/Science/2008/05/29/epa_limits_use_of_toxic_rat_poisons/5665/

Safety of Antibacterial Soap Debated
http://www.webmd.com/news/20080529/safety-debate-on-antibacterial-soap

Family Says Vaccines Caused Autism; Will Rally in D.C.
http://www.wsaz.com/charleston/headlines/19376044.html

May 8, 2008

The roots of chronic fatigue
http://www.economist.com/science/displaystory.cfm?story_id=11326174

Reach chemical policy reform comes alive
http://www.wbcsd.org/Plugins/DocSearch/details.asp?ObjectId=MzAyMTU

No Date

Protect your pets, family with a pesticide-free lawn
http://www.sedona.biz/pesticide-free-lawn0108.htm

Links

State Vaccine Exemption Laws and Information
http://www.nvic.org/state-site/state-exemptions.htm

Contaminated Without Consent
http://www.contaminatedwithoutconsent.org/

Scientific Studies

Busse, JW, Kulkarni, AV, Badwall, P, Guyatt, G, the Medically Unexplained
Syndromes Study Group. Attitudes Towards Fibromyalgia: A Survey of Canadian
Chiropractic, Naturopathic, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy
Students. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2008 May 31;8(1):24 [Epub ahead of
print]
http://www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1472-6882-8-24.pdf

Cecil KM, Brubaker CJ, Adler CM, Dietrich KN, Altaye M, et al. (2008)
Decreased Brain Volume in Adults with Childhood Lead Exposure. PLoS Med
5(5): e112
http://medicine.plosjournals.org/archive/1549-1676/5/5/pdf/10.1371_journal.pmed.0050112-L.pdf

Chronic fatigue syndrome: an approach combining self-management with graded
exercise to avoid exacerbations.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18382818?dopt=AbstractPlus

Exposure from the Chernobyl accident had adverse effects on erythrocytes,
leukocytes, and platelets in children in the Narodichesky region, Ukraine. A
6-year follow-up study.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18513393?dopt=AbstractPlus

Allergic reaction to biodegradable interference poly-L-lactic acid screws
after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar
tendon-bone graft.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18514119?dopt=AbstractPlus

The relationship between affect balance style and clinical outcomes in
fibromyalgia.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18512724?dopt=AbstractPlus

Delayed hypersensitivity reaction from black henna tattoo manifesting as
severe facial swelling.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez/18410830

Managing environmental sensitivity: an overview illustrated with a case
report.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18516285?dopt=AbstractPlus

[Lethal reaction after contrast medium administration]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18462629?ordinalpos=1&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVDocSum

Respiratory effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez/18032440

Direct and indirect cellular effects of aspartame on the brain.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez

[The value of allergy survey in a retrospective series of 40 patients with
burning-mouth syndrome (stomatodynia)]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18342090?dopt=AbstractPlus

From acute musculoskeletal pain to chronic widespread pain and fibromyalgia:
Application of pain neurophysiology in manual therapy practice.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18511329?dopt=AbstractPlus

Exploring the genetic susceptibility of chronic widespread pain: the tender
points in genetic association studies.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18321946?dopt=AbstractPlus

Occurrence of organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases among the
first- and second-degree relatives of Caucasian patients with connective
tissue diseases: report of data obtained through direct patient interviews.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18509714?dopt=AbstractPlus

Diagnostic and treatment challenges of chronic fatigue syndrome: role of
immediate-release methylphenidate.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18505357?dopt=AbstractPlus

Exposure from the Chernobyl accident had adverse effects on erythrocytes,
leukocytes, and platelets in children in the Narodichesky region, Ukraine. A
6-year follow-up study.
http://www.ehjournal.net/content/7/1/21

Inflammation and functional outcome in diisocyanate-induced asthma after
cessation of exposure
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18394133?dopt=AbstractPlus

Development of a symptoms questionnaire for complex regional pain syndrome
and potentially related illnesses: the trauma related neuronal dysfunction
symptoms inventory.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez

A new electromagnetic exposure metric: High frequency voltage transients
associated with increased cancer incidence in teachers in a california
school.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18512243?dopt=Abstract

Lourdes Salvador
www.mcs-america.org

Disclaimer:
Articles and links are not necessarily the opinion of MCS America, Lourdes
Salvador, and/or the volunteers who assemble this information. We will be
not responsible for misuse of this information. Posting does not constitute
endorsement. We have no financial interest in anything posted . This post is
provided free of charge via volunteer effort.

Exposure from the Chernobyl accident had adverse effects on erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets in children in the Narodichesky region, Ukraine. A 6-year follow-up study.

Environ Health. 2008 May 30;7(1):21. [Epub ahead of print] Links

Exposure from the Chernobyl accident had adverse effects on erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets in children in the Narodichesky region, Ukraine. A 6-year follow-up study.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18513393?dopt=AbstractPlus

Stepanova E, Karmaus W, Naboka M, Vdovenko V, Mousseau T, Shestopalov VM, Vena J, Svendsen E, Underhill D, Pastides H.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: After the Chernobyl nuclear accident on April 26, 1986, all children in the contaminated territory of the Narodichesky region, Zhitomir Oblast, Ukraine, were obliged to participate in a yearly medical examination. We present the results from these examinations for the years 1993 to 1998. Since the hematopoietic system is an important target, we investigated the association between residential soil density of 137Caesium (137Cs) and hemoglobin concentration, and red blood cell, platelet, and leukocyte counts in 1,251 children, using 4,989 repeated measurements taken from 1993 to 1998. METHODS: Soil contamination measurements from 38 settlements were used as exposures. Blood counts conducted using the same auto-analyzer in all investigations for all years. We used linear mixed models to compensate for the repeated measurements of each child over the six year period. We estimated the adjusted means for all markers, controlling for confounders. RESULTS: Data show a statistically significant reduction in red and white blood cell counts, platelet counts and hemoglobin with increasing residential 137Cs soil contamination. Over the six-year observation period, hematologic markers did improve. In children with the higher exposure who were born before the accident, this improvement was more pronounced in the white blood cell and platelet counts, and less for red blood cells and hemoglobin. There was no exposure x time interaction in 702 children who were born after the accident. The exposure gradient persisted in this sub-sample. CONCLUSIONS: The study is the first longitudinal analysis from a large cohort of children after the Chernobyl accident. The findings suggest persistent adverse hematological effects associated with residential 137Cs exposure.

PMID: 18513393 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Allergic reaction to biodegradable interference poly-L-lactic acid screws after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft.

Arthroscopy. 2008 Jun;24(6):732-3. Epub 2007 Apr 16. Links

Allergic reaction to biodegradable interference poly-L-lactic acid screws after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18514119?dopt=AbstractPlus

Mastrokalos DS, Paessler HH.

First Orthopaedical Department, University of Athens, General University Hospital ATTIKON, Haidari, Greece. D.S.Mastrokalos@otenet.gr

We report a case of a systemic allergic reaction to biodegradable poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) interference screws after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft. A 30-year-old patient complained of certain symptoms, such as an inability to focus mentally, rash on the right femur, chronic fatigue, decreased sex drive, and localized alopecia, 3 months after ACL reconstruction in the right knee. Two biodegradable PLLA interference screws had been used for proximal and distal graft fixation. Allergy testing showed a value of 7 in PLLA antigen. After removal of 1 screw in August 2000, the patient reported marked improvement, but some symptoms remained. In July 2001 he underwent arthroscopic revision ACL reconstruction with hamstrings via an implant-free technique with intensive debridement of the tunnels and removal of all scar tissue and screw rests. All symptoms disappeared, and the PLLA antigen number fell from 3 to "concentrate" 2 months postoperatively.

PMID: 18514119 [PubMed - in process]

Chronic fatigue syndrome: an approach combining self-management with graded exercise to avoid exacerbations.

J Rehabil Med. 2008 Apr;40(4):241-7. Links

Chronic fatigue syndrome: an approach combining self-management with graded exercise to avoid exacerbations.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18382818?dopt=AbstractPlus

Nijs J, Paul L, Wallman K.

Division of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Department of Health Care Sciences, University College Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium. j.nijs@ha.be

Controversy regarding the aetiology and treatment of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome continues among the medical professions. The Cochrane Collaboration advises practitioners to implement graded exercise therapy for patients with chronic fatigue syndrome using cognitive behavioural principles. Conversely, there is evidence that exercise can exacerbate symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome, if too-vigorous exercise/activity promotes immune dysfunction, which in turn increases symptoms. When designing and implementing an exercise programme for chronic fatigue syndrome it is important to be aware of both of these seemingly opposing viewpoints in order to deliver a programme with no detrimental effects on the pathophysiology of the condition. Using evidence from both the biological and clinical sciences, this paper explains that graded exercise therapy for people with chronic fatigue syndrome can be undertaken safely with no detrimental effects on the immune system. Exercise programmes should be designed to cater for individual physical capabilities and should take into account the fluctuating nature of symptoms. In line with cognitive behaviourally and graded exercise-based strategies, self-management for people with chronic fatigue syndrome involves encouraging patients to pace their activities and respect their physical and mental limitations, with the ultimate aim of improving their everyday functioning.

PMID: 18382818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Attitudes Towards Fibromyalgia: A Survey of Canadian Chiropractic, Naturopathic, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Students.

BMC Complement Altern Med. 2008 May 31;8(1):24. [Epub ahead of print] Links

Attitudes Towards Fibromyalgia: A Survey of Canadian Chiropractic, Naturopathic, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Students.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18513441?dopt=AbstractPlus

Busse JW, Kulkarni AV, Badwall P, Guyatt GH, Study Group TM.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: The frequent use of chiropractic, naturopathic, and physical and occupational therapy by patients with fibromyalgia has been emphasized repeatedly, but little is known about the attitudes of these therapists towards this challenging condition. METHODS: We administered a cross-sectional survey to 385 senior Canadian chiropractic, naturopathic, physical and occupational therapy students in their final year of studies, that inquired about attitudes towards the diagnosis and management of fibromyalgia. RESULTS: 336 students completed the survey (response rate 87%). While they disagreed about the etiology (primarily psychological 28%, physiolgical 23%, psychological and physiological 15%, unsure 34%), the majority (58%) reported that fibromyalgia was difficult to manage. Respondants were also conflicted in whether treatment should prioritize symptom relief (65%) or funcitonal gains (85%), with the majority (58%) wanting to do both. The majority of respondents (57%) agreed that there was effective treatment for fibromyalgia and that they possessed the required clinical skills to manage patients (55%). Chiropractic students were most skeptical in regards to fibromyalgia as a useful diagnostic entity, and most likely to endorse a psychological etiology. In our regression model, only training in naturopathic medicine (beta=0.33; 95% confidence interval=0.11 to 0.56) and the belief that effective therapies existed (beta=0.42; 95% confidence interval=0.30 to 0.54) were associated with greater confidence in managing patients with fibromyalgia. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of senior Canadian chiropractic, naturopathic, physical and opccupational therapy students, and in particular those with naturopathic training, believe that effective treatment for fibromyalgia exists and that they possess the clinical skillset to effectively manage this disorder. The majority place high priority on both symptom relief and functional gains when treating fibromyalgia.

PMID: 18513441 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

 

A survey of patients with self-reported severe food allergies in Japan.

Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2008 May;19(3):270-4. Links

A survey of patients with self-reported severe food allergies in Japan.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez/18397411

Imamura T, Kanagawa Y, Ebisawa M.

Department of Planning, Information and Management, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. imamura-t@umin.ac.jp

Food allergies have increased in recent years in Japan. Details of causative foods, places where anaphylaxis developed, and other allergic factors remain unknown, and we investigated them. A'questionnaire survey for the prevention of food allergies' was conducted using a nationwide group of patients with food allergies. A total of 1383 patients from 878 families (including 319 patients who experienced anaphylaxis) provided valid answers to the questionnaire. The average age of the first anaphylactic attack was 3.20 +/- 6.327 yr. The most common allergens causing anaphylaxis were in order milk, eggs, wheat, peanuts, and soybeans, followed by sesame and buckwheat. The most common place where anaphylaxis developed was the patient's own home, followed by fast food restaurants, places visited, restaurants, and schools. In patients' own homes, fast food restaurants (buffet), places visited and schools, the most common allergens were milk, eggs, and wheat. In restaurants and accommodation facilities, eggs were the most common allergen followed by milk. As possible food allergies can cause anaphylaxis, it is necessary to provide precise information for consumers regarding packaged and processed foods.

PMID: 18397411 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Respiratory effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory.

Eur Respir J. 2008 Apr;31(4):807-14. Epub 2007 Nov 21. Links

Respiratory effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez/18032440

Sripaiboonkij P, Phanprasit W, Jaakkola MS.

Institute of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK.

Ingestion of milk powder is a known cause of allergies in children, but the risks to respiratory health from exposure to inhaled milk powder have not been studied previously. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of occupational exposures in a milk powder factory on respiratory symptoms and lung function. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 167 milk powder factory workers (response rate 77%) and 76 office workers (73%) from four factories in Thailand. All participants answered a questionnaire and performed spirometry. Measurements of concentrations of dust were used to give additional information on exposures. Mean respirable dust concentrations in the factory were 0.02-2.18 mg x m(-3). The risk of breathlessness and nasal symptoms were significantly increased in production and packing staff. The risk of skin symptoms was significantly increased in those adding vitamin mixture to milk powder. Factory workers showed significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second measured as percentage of predicted value. The present study provides new evidence that workers exposed to milk powder by inhalation are at an increased risk of nasal symptoms, wheezing and breathlessness, and exhibit reduced spirometric lung function, even at relatively low air concentrations of milk dust.

PMID: 18032440 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Delayed hypersensitivity reaction from black henna tattoo manifesting as severe facial swelling.

Am J Emerg Med. 2008 May;26(4):515.e3-4. Links

Delayed hypersensitivity reaction from black henna tattoo manifesting as severe facial swelling.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez/18410830

Shavit I, Hoffmann Y, Shachor-Meyouhas Y, Knaani-Levinz H.

Emergency Department, Meyer Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel. i_shavit@rambam.health.gov.il

We report on a 14-year-old boy who was presented to the emergency department with an acute swelling of the face and scalp 3 days after using a new hair dye. The patient had applied a black henna tattoo 1 year earlier. Patch testing revealed an allergy to the potent skin sensitizer paraphenylenediamine, a common ingredient of hair dyes and also found in black henna tattoo. It is important for emergency physicians to be aware of the possibility of a delayed type-IV hypersensitivity reaction from black henna tattoos manifesting as an acute contact dermatitis. These patients may have gross facial swelling but should not be treated for angioedema.

PMID: 18410830 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Direct and indirect cellular effects of aspartame on the brain

Eur J Clin Nutr. 2008 Apr;62(4):451-62. Epub 2007 Aug 8. Links

Direct and indirect cellular effects of aspartame on the brain.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez

Humphries P, Pretorius E, Naudé H.

Department of Anatomy, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa.

The use of the artificial sweetener, aspartame, has long been contemplated and studied by various researchers, and people are concerned about its negative effects. Aspartame is composed of phenylalanine (50%), aspartic acid (40%) and methanol (10%). Phenylalanine plays an important role in neurotransmitter regulation, whereas aspartic acid is also thought to play a role as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Glutamate, asparagines and glutamine are formed from their precursor, aspartic acid. Methanol, which forms 10% of the broken down product, is converted in the body to formate, which can either be excreted or can give rise to formaldehyde, diketopiperazine (a carcinogen) and a number of other highly toxic derivatives. Previously, it has been reported that consumption of aspartame could cause neurological and behavioural disturbances in sensitive individuals. Headaches, insomnia and seizures are also some of the neurological effects that have been encountered, and these may be accredited to changes in regional brain concentrations of catecholamines, which include norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine. The aim of this study was to discuss the direct and indirect cellular effects of aspartame on the brain, and we propose that excessive aspartame ingestion might be involved in the pathogenesis of certain mental disorders (DSM-IV-TR 2000) and also in compromised learning and emotional functioning.

PMID: 17684524 [PubMed - in process]

A new electromagnetic exposure metric: High frequency voltage transients associated with increased cancer incidence in teachers in a california school.

A new electromagnetic exposure metric: High frequency voltage transients associated with increased cancer incidence in teachers in a california school.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18512243?dopt=Abstract

Milham S, Morgan LL.

Washington State Department of Health, Tumwater, Washington.

BACKGROUND: In 2003 the teachers at La Quinta, California middle school complained that they had more cancers than would be expected. A consultant for the school district denied that there was a problem. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the cancer incidence in the teachers, and its cause. METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study of cancer incidence in the teachers' cohort in relationship to the school's electrical environment. RESULTS: Sixteen school teachers in a cohort of 137 teachers hired in 1988 through 2005 were diagnosed with 18 cancers. The observed to expected (O/E) risk ratio for all cancers was 2.78 (P = 0.000098), while the O/E risk ratio for malignant melanoma was 9.8 (P = 0.0008). Thyroid cancer had a risk ratio of 13.3 (P = 0.0098), and uterine cancer had a risk ratio of 9.2 (P = 0.019). Sixty Hertz magnetic fields showed no association with cancer incidence. A new exposure metric, high frequency voltage transients, did show a positive correlation to cancer incidence. A cohort cancer incidence analysis of the teacher population showed a positive trend (P = 7.1 x 10(-10)) of increasing cancer risk with increasing cumulative exposure to high frequency voltage transients on the classroom's electrical wiring measured with a Graham/Stetzer (G/S) meter. The attributable risk of cancer associated with this exposure was 64%. A single year of employment at this school increased a teacher's cancer risk by 21%. CONCLUSION: The cancer incidence in the teachers at this school is unusually high and is strongly associated with high frequency voltage transients, which may be a universal carcinogen, similar to ionizing radiation. Am. J. Ind. Med. 2008. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

PMID: 18512243 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - June 2007 Newsletter

MCSA NEWS
June 2008, Volume 3, Issue 6

 

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/june2008.pdf  (View, Download, and Print)
NEW!  Entire Online Edition: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm   (View as a Webpage)

 

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

 

Injurious Inoculation:  Is Vaccination Behind Children's Declining Health?
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg12345.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Injurious_Inoculation  

Feature Article:  The Cell Phone and the Cell:  The Roll of Calcium
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg6789101112131415161718192021.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_The_Cell_Phone

News:  The Honest Get the Axe
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg22.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_The_Honest_Get
 
Scientific Review:  Incense Damages Lungs
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg23.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Incense_Damages_Lungs

Scientific Study: Confirmed:  MCS is not Allergy
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg24.pdf
Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Confirmed:__MCS
  
Scientific Study:  Researchers Say Your House Affects Your Health… And You May Not Realize It
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg252627.pdf
Online Version: http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Researchers_Say_Your 
 
Scientific Study:  Hawaii No Panacea:  Air Pollution is Everywhere
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg2829.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Scientific_Review_1

Scientific Study:  Electrosensitivity Grows in Relation to Cell Phone Towers
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg30.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Electrosensitivity_Grows_in  
 
Looking Out at the World
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg31.pdf
nline Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Looking_Out_at
 
MCS Is Completely Avoidable
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg32.pdf
nline Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_MCS_Is_Completely_

Sal's Place:  When Medicine Leaves Patients Out Fending for Themselves
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg333435.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Sal's_Place
 
Inside MCS America:  Website Improvements
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg36.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Website_Improvements

MCS Community News
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg37.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_MCS_Community_News

MCS Research Studies
PDF Version:  http://mcs-america.org/june2008pg383940.pdf
Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsjune2008.htm#_Featured_MCS_Research 

 

 

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http://www.mcs-america.org

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Copyrighted © 2008  MCS America

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Exploring the genetic susceptibility of chronic widespread pain: the tender points in genetic association studies.

Rheumatology (Oxford). 2008 May;47(5):572-7. Epub 2008 Mar 5. Links

Exploring the genetic susceptibility of chronic widespread pain: the tender points in genetic association studies.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18321946?dopt=AbstractPlus

Limer KL, Nicholl BI, Thomson W, McBeth J.

ARC Epidemiology Unit, University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT. kate.limer@manchester.ac.uk

Chronic widespread pain (CWP) is a prevalent disorder associated with a low pain threshold and increased levels of psychological distress. Evidence indicates that there is a genetic component to CWP syndromes and pain sensitivity. Here we have identified and reviewed the current literature on genetic association (GA) studies of CWP and pain sensitivity by searching MEDLINE and EMBASE between January 1990 and May 2007. Of the 18 candidate genes studied to date, no definitive susceptibility genes have been identified. This review highlights the key issues for consideration when interpreting the findings from existing studies and in designing future studies to ensure robust and comparable findings in this field. Well-designed GA studies are essential if the genetic component to CWP aetiology is to be fully determined.

PMID: 18321946 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

From acute musculoskeletal pain to chronic widespread pain and fibromyalgia: Application of pain neurophysiology in manual therapy practice.

Man Ther. 2008 May 27. [Epub ahead of print]

From acute musculoskeletal pain to chronic widespread pain and fibromyalgia: Application of pain neurophysiology in manual therapy practice.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18511329?dopt=AbstractPlus

Nijs J, Van Houdenhove B.

Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Belgium; Division of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Department of Health Care Sciences, University College Antwerp, Van Aertselaerstraat 31, B-2170 Merksem, Belgium.

During the past decade, scientific research has provided new insight into the development from an acute, localised musculoskeletal disorder towards chronic widespread pain/fibromyalgia (FM). Chronic widespread pain/FM is characterised by sensitisation of central pain pathways. An in-depth review of basic and clinical research was performed to design a theoretical framework for manual therapy in these patients. It is explained that manual therapy might be able to influence the process of chronicity in three different ways. (I) In order to prevent chronicity in (sub)acute musculoskeletal disorders, it seems crucial to limit the time course of afferent stimulation of peripheral nociceptors. (II) In the case of chronic widespread pain and established sensitisation of central pain pathways, relatively minor injuries/trauma at any locations are likely to sustain the process of central sensitisation and should be treated appropriately with manual therapy accounting for the decreased sensory threshold. Inappropriate pain beliefs should be addressed and exercise interventions should account for the process of central sensitisation. (III) However, manual therapists ignoring the processes involved in the development and maintenance of chronic widespread pain/FM may cause more harm then benefit to the patient by triggering or sustaining central sensitisation.

PMID: 18511329 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

[The value of allergy survey in a retrospective series of 40 patients with burning-mouth syndrome (stomatodynia)]

Ann Dermatol Venereol. 2008 Feb;135(2):105-9. Epub 2008 Feb 1. Links

[The value of allergy survey in a retrospective series of 40 patients with burning-mouth syndrome (stomatodynia)]

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18342090?dopt=AbstractPlus

[Article in French]

Machet L, Le Dû S, Bernez A, Pillette-Delarue M, Lelièvre G, Hoarau C, Hüttenberger B, Vaillant L.

Unité fonctionnelle transversale d'allergologie, service de dermatologie, CHRU, université François-Rabelais, 37044 Tours, France. machet@med.univ-tours.fr

BACKGROUND: By definition, stomatodynia or burning-mouth syndrome involves oral pain with no causes being found on history taking or examination. An allergic origin is often suspected by doctors and patients alike. In this study, we attempted to assess the value of epicutaneous tests in demonstrating allergic causes for patients presenting stomatodynia. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a single-centre retrospective study of patients undergoing epicutaneous tests between 1996 and 2003 to screen for allergic causes of mouth pain not accounted for by any abnormalities seen during examination performed at consultations for mouth disease. RESULTS: Forty patients were included (11 male, 29 female; mean age: 58 years), and 39 were excluded. Sixteen patients presented at least one positive test, with a total of 35 positive tests in all. In decreasing order of frequency, the causes were metals, mercury derivatives (nickel salts: n=5; chrome salts: n=3; palladium salts: n=2; phenylmercuric acetate: n=2; thiomersal: n=2; cobalt salts: n=1; gold salts: n=1; mercury: n=1) and resins (acrylates: n=4). The relevance of these test results was considered probable in three cases and possible in five cases, associated with the existence of metals or resins in patients' mouths. The Peru balm test was positive in four cases but was not relevant. Tests for personal products were negative in all cases, with the exception of one case of resin from a prosthesis and one case of tixocortol pivalate. COMMENTS: Type I stomatodynia (daily occurrence with gradually increase in discomfort throughout the day) and type II stomatodynia (permanent) are not normally attributable to allergies. However, for type III stomatodynia (non-permanent, with acute episodes followed by remission), an allergy survey guided by questioning may be undertaken to determine the cause, primarily prostheses or diet. The relevance of positive test results must be interpreted with caution in view of the incidence of positive epicutaneous tests for metals and Peru balm among the general population studied.

PMID: 18342090 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Comparison of flow cytometry- and microscopy-based methods for measuring micronucleated reticulocyte frequencies in rodents treated with nongenotoxic and genotoxic chemicals.

Mutat Res. 2008 Jan 8;649(1-2):101-13. Epub 2007 Aug 11. Links

 

Comparison of flow cytometry- and microscopy-based methods for measuring micronucleated reticulocyte frequencies in rodents treated with nongenotoxic and genotoxic chemicals

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17869571?dopt=AbstractPlus

 

Witt KL, Livanos E, Kissling GE, Torous DK, Caspary W, Tice RR, Recio L.

Environmental Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA. witt@niehs.nih.gov

The development of automated flow cytometric (FCM) methods for evaluating micronucleus (MN) frequencies in erythrocytes has great potential for improving the sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput of the traditional in vivo rodent MN assay that uses microscopy-based methods for data collection. Although some validation studies of the FCM evaluation methods have been performed, a comprehensive comparison of these two data collection methods under routine testing conditions with a variety of compounds in multiple species has not been conducted. Therefore, to determine if FCM evaluation of MN frequencies in rodents was an acceptable alternative to traditional manual scoring methods in our laboratory, we conducted a comparative evaluation of MN-reticulocyte (MN-RET) frequencies determined by FCM- and microscopy-based scoring of peripheral blood and bone marrow samples from B6C3F1 mice and Fisher 344 rats. Four known inducers of MN (cyclophosphamide, ethyl methanesulfonate, vincristine sulfate, acrylamide) were assayed in bone marrow and peripheral blood of both mice and rats. In addition, MN-RET frequencies were measured in bone marrow (microscopy) and peripheral blood (FCM) of mice treated with five nongenotoxic chemicals (S-adenosylmethionine chloride, cefuroxime, diphenolic acid, 3-amino-6-methylphenol, pentabromodiphenyl oxide). No significant differences were observed between results obtained by the two methods in either species. These results support the use of FCM for determining MN-RET frequency in rodents after chemical exposure.

PMID: 17869571 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

PMCID: PMC2234598

Diagnostic and treatment challenges of chronic fatigue syndrome: role of immediate-release methylphenidate.

Expert Rev Neurother. 2008 Jun;8(6):917-27. Links

Diagnostic and treatment challenges of chronic fatigue syndrome: role of immediate-release methylphenidate.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18505357?dopt=AbstractPlus

Valdizán Usón JR, Idiazábal Alecha MA.

Servicio de Neurofisiología Clínica, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Paseo Isabel la Católica 1-3, E-50009 Zaragoza, Spain. jrvaldizan@auna.com

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a distinct entity belonging to the group of persistent fatigue that can be challenging to diagnose and to treat. It is characterized by a combination of prolonged fatigue, other nonspecific somatic manifestations and neuropsychological symptoms, including difficulties with concentration, short-term memory and thinking, as well as impaired attention and slowed processing speed. Neurostimulants increasing dopamine and norepinephrine activity, such as bupropion, dextroamphetamine and recently immediate-release methylphenidate have been advocated to improve neurocognitive deficits. The use of immediate-release methylphenidate in CFS has been shown in one small study. Using the positive results of this study and the well-known beneficial effects of the drug on a range of similar cognitive symptoms in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, this perspective addresses CFS and other related disorders and provides a discussion on the potential promising role of methylphenidate in the therapeutic armamentarium of CFS.

PMID: 18505357 [PubMed - in process]

Occurrence of organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases

Clin Rheumatol. 2008 May 29. [Epub ahead of print] Links

Occurrence of organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases among the first- and second-degree relatives of Caucasian patients with connective tissue diseases: report of data obtained through direct patient interviews.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18509714?dopt=AbstractPlus

Mosca M, Carli L, d'Ascanio A, Tani C, Talarico R, Baldini C, Bazzichi L, Tavoni A, Migliorini P, Bombardieri S.

Rheumatology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy, marta.mosca@int.med.unipi.it.

Studies have demonstrated a familial aggregation of systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases. The aim of the present survey was to obtain, by patient interviews, a preliminary estimate of the prevalence of systemic and organ-specific autoimmune diseases among the first- and second-degree relatives of Caucasian patients with connective tissue diseases (CTD) or inflammatory arthritis followed at our unit. Between June 2007 and January 2008, 626 patients and 85 controls (patients with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, or fibromyalgia) were interviewed. Three hundred ten patients (50%) versus 21 controls (25%) were found to have at least one relative affected with an autoimmune condition (p < 0.0001). The most common conditions were organ-specific autoimmune diseases: 160 (34%) autoimmune thyroid (AT) disease, 112 (24%) psoriasis, 21 vitiligo, and 19 insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Systemic autoimmune diseases were reported in 126 relatives: rheumatoid arthritis (66 cases, 14%), 16 sacroileitis, and CTD (43 cases). A significant difference was observed in the prevalence of AT disease between the relatives of the patients and controls (3% versus 0.5%). In conclusion, these data confirm the high prevalence of autoimmune conditions, particularly of AT disease, among the relatives of patients.

PMID: 18509714 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Decreased brain volume in adults with childhood lead exposure

Decreased brain volume in adults with childhood lead exposure

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18507499?dopt=AbstractPlus

Cecil KM, Brubaker CJ, Adler CM, Dietrich KN, Altaye M, Egelhoff JC, Wessel S, Elangovan I, Hornung R, Jarvis K, Lanphear BP.

Cincinnati Children's Environmental Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America. kim.cecil@cchmc.org

PLoS Med. 2008 May 27;5(5):e112.

FULLTEXT: http://medicine.plosjournals.org/perlserv/?request=get-document&doi=10.1371/journal.pmed.0050112&ct=1

BACKGROUND: Although environmental lead exposure is associated with significant deficits in cognition, executive functions, social behaviors, and motor abilities, the neuroanatomical basis for these impairments remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the relationship between childhood lead exposure and adult brain volume using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also explored how volume changes correlate with historic neuropsychological assessments.

METHODS AND FINDINGS: Volumetric analyses of whole brain MRI data revealed significant decreases in brain volume associated with childhood blood lead concentrations. Using conservative, minimum contiguous cluster size and statistical criteria (700 voxels, unadjusted p < 0.001), approximately 1.2% of the total gray matter was significantly and inversely associated with mean childhood blood lead concentration. The most affected regions included frontal gray matter, specifically the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Areas of lead-associated gray matter volume loss were much larger and more significant in men than women. We found that fine motor factor scores positively correlated with gray matter volume in the cerebellar hemispheres; adding blood lead concentrations as a variable to the model attenuated this correlation.

CONCLUSIONS: Childhood lead exposure is associated with region-specific reductions in adult gray matter volume. Affected regions include the portions of the prefrontal cortex and ACC responsible for executive functions, mood regulation, and decision-making. These neuroanatomical findings were more pronounced for males, suggesting that lead-related atrophic changes have a disparate impact across sexes. This analysis suggests that adverse cognitive and behavioral outcomes may be related to lead's effect on brain development producing persistent alterations in structure. Using a simple model, we found that blood lead concentration mediates brain volume and fine motor function.

PMID: 18507499 [PubMed - in process]

Development of a symptoms questionnaire for complex regional pain syndrome

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2008 Jun;89(6):1114-20. Links

Development of a symptoms questionnaire for complex regional pain syndrome and potentially related illnesses: the trauma related neuronal dysfunction symptoms inventory.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez

Collins S, van Hilten JJ, Marinus J, Zuurmond WW, de Lange JJ, Perez RS.

Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. s.collins@vumc.nl

OBJECTIVE: To develop a questionnaire to evaluate symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS-I), fibromyalgia, and repetitive strain injury to determine the test-retest reliability and investigate concurrence in the clinical manifestations of CRPS-I and fibromyalgia. DESIGN: The Trauma Related Neuronal Dysfunction Symptoms Inventory (TSI) was developed by determining the content validity and the practical use of the questionnaire. Furthermore, the test-retest reliability was assessed on 2 identical questionnaires filled out within a 7-day interval by CRPS-I and fibromyalgia patients. SETTING: Outpatient pain clinic of a Dutch medical center. PARTICIPANTS: CRPS-I (n=26; mean age, 54y) and fibromyalgia patients (n=42; mean age, 45.4y). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Test-retest reliability calculated with intraclass correlation (ICC). RESULTS: Reliability scores were good for the whole questionnaire, its categories, and domains (ICC>.75) for both CRPS-I and fibromyalgia patients. Sensory complaints (except for change in cold perception), motor complaints, and visceral complaints (diarrhea and incontinence) were reported by both CRPS-I and fibromyalgia patients. A change in cold perception, discoloration, change in skin temperature, change in sweating behavior, change in the severity of edema during exercise, and trophic changes of skin were reported significantly more often by CRPS-I patients, whereas complaints of the (upper and lower) back, constipation, urine retention, and experiencing a dry mouth were reported significantly more often by fibromyalgia patients. CONCLUSIONS: The TSI is a reliable instrument with good content validity, which can be used in the evaluation of similarities and differences between CRPS-I and fibromyalgia. The systematic evaluation of symptoms of CRPS-I and potentially related illnesses may provide a better basis for future research into the underlying mechanism(s).

PMID: 18503808 [PubMed - in process]