Neuro-cognitive profile on exposure to Aluminium at work place - A Case report

Thamilselvan Palanichamy; Manoj Kumar Sharma; Santhosh K.Chaturvedi; Jamuna Rajeshwaran

Volume : VI, Issue : V, May - 2017

Neuro-cognitive profile on exposure to Aluminium at work place - A Case report

Thamilselvan Palanichamy, Manoj Kumar Sharma, Santhosh K. Chaturvedi, Jamuna Rajeshwaran

Abstract :

Introduction: The aluminum exposure predisposes the individual to health problems as well as psychological problems. It may be a cause for neuropsychological dysfunctions such as forgetfulness, confusion, memory loss, convulsions and inability to concentrate.

Case Report: A single case study aimed to assess the neuro-cognitive profile of exposure to aluminum at work place. The complaints included excess sensitivity to voice, numbness and tiredness in left upper limb and right lower limb and excess tactile sensation for past 3 years. The present complaints have been experienced subsequent to working in a unit which involves exposure to AlO2 hydrocarbons for the last 3 years. Assessments were used in such as Cognitive-Somatic Anxiety Questionnaire (CSAQ) and NIMHANS Neuropsychological Battery-2004 Reassessment was done after 5 months. Discussion: On NIMHANS Neuropsychological battery, the case has got low score in the area of motor speed, mental speed, sustained attention, verbal and category fluency and verbal learning and memory. A single case presents the exploratory of evidence about neuropsychological problems associated with exposure to aluminum at workplace. There is a need to develop evidence for the presence of neuropsychological functions and prevention strategies to reduce the harmful effect of exposure to aluminum.