P-006 Systemic Sclerosis and Occupational Exposure to Organic Solvents: A Report of Two Cases

Abstract Introduction Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease with a multifactorial etiology, and its underlying pathophysiology remains incompletely elucidated. The observation of scleroderma cases among individuals with occupational exposure to organic solvents raises intriguing questions about the potential role of environmental factors in the pathogenesis of this condition. Discuss occupational systemic sclerosis related to chronic exposure to industry- used organic solvents and propose a preventive strategy. Methods The study comprises two case reports and a bibliographic search. Results Two female patients, aged 23 and 52, worked in industrial clothing factories, exposed chronically to organic solvents like perchloroethylene without preventive measures. Scleroderma diagnosis was confirmed through positive antinuclear antibody assays, reduced capillary count by capillaroscopy, and restricted respiratory function. The exposure duration was six and 16 years, respectively. The second patient was also diagnosed with organic psychosyndrome and peripheral neuropathy, declared of occupational origin, unlike scleroderma, not recognized legally. Discussion Occupational investigation identified organic solvents as likely causal agents. Chronic exposure suggests a potential link to occupational systemic sclerosis. Literature already associates organic solvents with scleroderma development. The biological plausibility of solvent-induced scleroderma, potentially involving immunological mechanisms like protein denaturation, aligns with established disease pathways and effects of organic solvent exposure. Conclusion Our study emphasizes the significance of implementing preventive measures at individual and collective levels to mitigate potential increases in scleroderma cases resulting from widespread solvent use, which could also reduce the risk of developing drug-like addiction to solvents and other effects on major organs.