Clinical course of non-occupational diseases in chronic manganese intoxication

Abstract

Chronic manganese intoxication occupies a special place among occupational neurotoxicoses due to the severity of its clinical course and outcomes, its tendency to progress even after removal from the source of harmful exposure, and the difficulty of diagnosis. In industrial settings, manganese is found in the form of dust, vapor, and aerosols containing manganese salts and oxides. The main occupational group characterized by a high risk of developing manganotoxicosis are electric welders engaged in manual welding and cutting of metals using manganese fluxes in various industries. Diagnosis of chronic manganese intoxication is extremely complex, as it relies primarily on a subjective assessment of most of its clinical manifestations. It is known that the nature of the underlying pathology, particularly chronic manganese intoxication, influences comorbidities, and, conversely, comorbidities can significantly alter the course and treatment of the underlying disease. This issue has received virtually no attention in the existing literature. There are various, highly contradictory views regarding the condition of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as the thyroid gland, in this pathology. These concerns are the subject of this study. The objective of the study was to investigate the incidence and characteristics of some of the most common non-occupational diseases in patients with chronic manganese intoxication. To develop key principles for early diagnosis, treatment, preventive measures, and rehabilitation. This is the first study to examine the incidence and clinical characteristics of the most common non-occupational diseases, particularly cardiovascular and gastrointestinal pathologies, in patients with chronic manganese intoxication.