New diseases are at this time appearing in the field of industrial medicine with greater frequency than in any other division of medical endeavor. Explanations for this are obvious and sufficient. These new disease entities follow in the wake of the endless flow of new chemical products from the research laboratory to the factory. The early history of these new diseases is likely to be attended by simplicity of diagnostic criteria. Later, as a larger experience develops and atypical cases arise, it becomes necessary to recast the standards of diagnosis. Benzene poisoning may be cited as typical in this situation. PRESENT-DAY STANDARDS In one state the compensation board makes its decisions with reference to benzene claims largely from the following schedule: Symptoms of Local Irritation.— Conjunctivitis. Bronchitis. Gingivitis. Stomatitis. Gastritis. Symptoms of Anemia.— Pallor. Muscular weakness. Gastric upsets and vomiting. Dizziness. Headache. Sense of constriction about the head and chest.
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Carey P. McCord (1929) studied this question.
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