Benzolism

Poisoning caused by exposure to benzol.

Exposure sources

Preparation of coloring matters, perfumes, explosives and pharmaceutical products.
Use of diluents, solvents for the extraction of fats and resins .
Manufacture of rubbers , rubbers , mirrors, detergents and varnishes .
Use and manufacture of paints , enamels , printing dyes, glues and adhesives for rubber shoes and hats , artificial flowers , tires , fumigants, herbicides and insecticides .
Dry cleaning in dry cleaners.

Clinical picture

  • Acute intoxication : When the intoxication is minor, an excitement similar to alcohol is observed; then depression , adynamia, headache , drowsiness , dizziness ; as well as delirium , seizures, and loss of consciousness. With severe exposure, there is an instantaneous loss of consciousness, cyanosis of the lips and fingers, and even death .
  • Chronic intoxication : This type of intoxication has two phases.
  • Latent or small benzolism: asthenia, headache, dizziness, anorexia , constipation , leukopenia, platelet penia, and aplastic anemia are found.
  • Benzolism in advanced periods: leukopenia, neutropenia, severe platelet penia, aplastic anemia, polycythemia, acute leukemia, and erythroleukemia occur.

Differential diagnosis


It is established with aplastic anemia, gold or arsenic poisoning , Chloramphenicol or radiotherapy ; as well as with other conditions that cause spinal depression.

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