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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

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01-01-2016 | Original Article

Chemosensory perception, symptoms and autonomic responses during chemical exposure in multiple chemical sensitivity

Authors: Linus Andersson, Anna-Sara Claeson, Thomas Meinertz Dantoft, Sine Skovbjerg, Nina Lind, Steven Nordin

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Purpose

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a prevalent medically unexplained symptom characterized by symptom reactions to everyday chemical exposure below hygienic thresholds. The aim of this study was to investigate the expressions of hyper-reactivity in MCS during whole-body exposure to low concentrations of the odorant n-butanol.

Methods

We exposed 18 participants with MCS and 18 non-ill controls to a low concentration of the odorant n-butanol using an exposure chamber. The first 10 min constituted blank exposure, after which the n-butanol concentration increased and reached a plateau at 11.5 mg/m³.

Results

MCS participants, compared with controls, reported greater perceived odor intensities, more unpleasantness to the exposure and increasing symptoms over time. MCS participants also expressed higher pulse rate and lower pulse rate variability than controls did. No group differences were found for breathing rate or tonic electrodermal activity responses.

Conclusions

We conclude that MCS sufferers differ from healthy controls in terms of autonomic responses, symptoms and chemosensory perception during chemical exposure.

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Title: Chemosensory perception, symptoms and autonomic responses during chemical exposure in multiple chemical sensitivity
Authors: Linus Andersson
Anna-Sara Claeson
Thomas Meinertz Dantoft
Sine Skovbjerg
Nina Lind
Steven Nordin
Publication date: 01-01-2016
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 1/2016
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-015-1053-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Chemosensory perception, symptoms and autonomic responses during chemical exposure in multiple chemical sensitivity

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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