Progress and Prospects in Parkinson's Research/Causes/Toxins/Toluene

Background
Toluene is a benzene derivative with the chemical formula C6H5CH3. It is used in the manufacture of solvents, paint thinners, lacquers, sealants, printing inks, fuel additives and adhesives. It is a colourless liquid with a distinctive smell. It is the subject of solvent abuse as repeated inhalation induces a euphoric, dissociative state.

Research
1999

Hageman et al presented the results of an evaluation of 3 patients who had had sustained exposure to solvents including toluene. They had developed Parkinson symptoms but were unresponsive to levodopa.

2002

Aydin et al carried out MRI scans of 41 patients who had chronically abused solvents – including toluene. They noted significant permanent damage to parts of the brain including the basal ganglia. Some of the patients were showing signs of Parkinson’s Disease.

2003

Pals et al (2003) examined the records of 423 Belgian P.D. patients and found clusters corresponding to their degree of exposure to zinc and toluene.