What is Neurotoxicity?

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http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health_and_medical/disorders/neurotoxicity.htm

What is Neurotoxicity?

Neurotoxicity occurs when the exposure to natural or

manmade toxic substances (neurotoxicants) alters the

normal activity of the nervous system. This can

eventually disrupt or even kill neurons, key cells

that transmit and process signals in the brain and

other parts of the nervous system. Neurotoxicity can

result from exposure to substances used in

chemotherapy, radiation treatment, drug therapies, and

organ transplants, as well as exposure to heavy metals

such as lead and mercury, certain foods and food

additives, pesticides, industrial and/or cleaning

solvents, cosmetics, and some naturally occurring

substances. Symptoms may appear immediately after

exposure or be delayed. They may include limb weakness

or numbness; loss of memory, vision, and/or intellect;

headache; cognitive and behavioral problems; and

sexual dysfunction. Individuals with certain disorders

may be especially vulnerable to neurotoxicants.

Is there any treatment?

Treatment involves eliminating or reducing exposure to

the toxic substance, followed by symptomatic and

supportive therapy.

What is the prognosis?

The prognosis depends upon the length and degree of

exposure and the severity of neurological injury. In

some instances, exposure to neurotoxicants can be

fatal. In others, patients may survive but not fully

recover. In other situations, many individuals recover

completely after treatment.

What research is being done?

The NINDS supports research on disorders of the brain

and nervous system such as neurotoxicity, aimed at

learning more about these disorders and finding ways

to prevent and treat them. Scientists are

investigating the role occupational or environmental

toxicants have on progressive neurodegenerative

disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic

lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis,and dementia.

Also being studied are the mechanisms that trigger

neuroimmune responses in the central nervous system

and the possibility that some brain disorders in

children may occur when environmental triggers

interact with genes.