@Article{Mulak2008,
journal="Klinika Oczna / Acta Ophthalmologica Polonica",
issn="0023-2157",
volume="110",
number="2",
year="2008",
title="Wpływ przewlekłego działania metali ciężkich
na narząd wzroku",
abstract="Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate relationship between chronic occupational exposure to heavy metals and eyesight, with particular lead influence.  Material and methods: The experimental group was composed of 120 workers of Copper Steelwork Plant “Legnica”, divided into  2 groups, based on the degree and period of exposure to heavy metals. 75 men hired in direct production with work residency  of 7 to 34 years (mean 21.2) made the experimental Group A – the occupationally exposed group. Group B with 45 white-collar men with work residency of 4 to 39 years (mean 19.8) made the environmentally exposed group. All workers underwent  complex ophthalmic examination with particular lens investigation following pupil dilation, lead and cadmium level in full blood  determination and free erythrocyte protoporphyrin (FEP) test, as indicator of human body lead overload.  Results: Mean lead levels in both groups were considerably higher than permissible concentration in biological material (PCB) for  occupationally exposed workers, and was higher for those working directly in production. Free erythrocyte protoporphyrin (FEP)  level was correct in both groups. Lenticular changes were noticed in 26 (21.7%) patients, of whom 18 (69.2%) were hired in direct  production. Similarly, fundus changes were shown in 17 patients, 16 (22%) from Group A; changes in field of vision in 3 patients.  Furthermore, 15 men working in direct production complained of burning sensation, tearing and periodic redness in the eyes.  Conclusions: Mean blood cadmium and lead levels, higher in occupationally exposed workers was statistically important only in  case of lead. However, the correct FEP level indicates that an organism was not overload with lead. In these workers (group A)  lenticular changes were observed more often and were more intense (cortex opacitates, posterior subcapsular cataract). Fundus changes noticed in both groups were of low degree and coexisting diseases may have promoted their progression. Field of  vision changes noticed in 3 workers may have been caused by lead toxicity to optic nerve. Periodical conjuctival inflammatory  states are caused by irritative dust and smoke therefore protective eye wear is indicated.",
author="Mulak, Małgorzata
and Misiuk-Hojło, Marta
and Markuszewski, Bartłomiej
and Dembska, Karolina",
pages="176--182",
url="https://www.termedia.pl/Influence-of-chronic-exposure-to-heavy-metals-on-eyesight,124,48732,1,1.html"
}