Occupational exposure to nitrous oxide - not a laughing matter

Article Abstract:

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, has used since the middle of the 19th century as an anesthetic. Epidemiological studies have revealed that long-term exposure to low levels of nitrous oxide may cause serious health problems such as liver and neurological damage. Exposure to nitrous oxide may also increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. A research study found that female dental assistants exposed to high levels of nitrous oxide experienced more difficulty in conceiving a child. Exposure to nitrous oxide may also affect male fertility. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended a maximal level of exposure to nitrous oxide. Many individuals who work in dental offices may be exposed to levels of nitrous oxide that are higher than those recommended by the NIOSH, despite the use of nitrous oxide scavenging systems. The use of nitrous oxide in dental offices may need to be curtailed, despite its popularity with both clinicians and patients.

Health aspects, Editorial, Occupational health and safety, Occupational safety and health, Environmental aspects, Medical personnel

---

Adverse effect of nitrous oxide in a child with 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency

Article Abstract:

Patients with a deficiency of an enzyme called 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase should never receive nitrous oxide anesthesia. A four-month-old baby with this disorder died after receiving nitrous oxide on two occasions four days apart. Nitrous oxide inhibits an enzyme in the same metabolic pathway as 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which makes the deficiency even worse.

Case studies

---

Severe methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency, methionine synthase, and nitrous oxide -- a cautionary tale

Article Abstract:

All people who have greater than normal blood levels of homocysteine should also have their blood methionine levels measured. In this way, doctors can identify people who may have a metabolic disorder that can make nitrous oxide anesthesia dangerous. A four-month-old baby with this metabolic disorder died after receiving nitrous oxide anesthesia on two occasions four days apart.

Genetic aspects, Methionine, Homocysteine

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Essential tremor: it's not simply another part of growing older. Glaucoma medication may diminish tremor
• Abstracts: Scale sorcery. Going to the dogs: how one person's loss can be another's gain. Lost causes
• Abstracts: Doctors seek peace through cooperation. Doctors came to do good, but it was too little, too fast. Physician data require safeguards
• Abstracts: Sports medicine. Aspirations and ideals in the Olympic Games
• Abstracts: Rapid health needs assessment following hurricane Andrew - Florida and Louisiana, 1992. Preliminary report: medical examiner reports of deaths associated with hurricane Andrew - Florida

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.