ASSESSMENT OF TOXICITY IMPACT AND BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES RESULTING FROM DIRECT AND INDIRECT EXPOSURE TO LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

Borghsh, Ibrahim H.; Mohamed, Magdy M.; Gaballah, Inas F.; Hassan, Rasha E.

doi:10.21608/jes.2025.395746.2033

ASSESSMENT OF TOXICITY IMPACT AND BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES RESULTING FROM DIRECT AND INDIRECT EXPOSURE TO LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of Environmental Basic Sciences, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Environmental Research, Ain Shams University

² Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University

³ Department Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University

10.21608/jes.2025.395746.2033

Abstract

Mercaptans are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in industries such as natural gas odorization and chemical manufacturing. Prolonged or high-level exposure to these substances may pose serious health risks. This study investigated the chronic toxicity of ethyl mercaptan in male workers involved in the gas cylinder filling process. Eighty male workers aged 30–50 years, with at least 10 years of employment at liquid petroleum gas (LPG) filling factory, were examined. They were divided into two groups: 60 workers with direct exposure (further classified by employment duration—10, 20, or 30 years) and 20 with indirect exposure for 20 years. All participants underwent clinical and laboratory assessments both at the start and during their employment. The findings revealed significant negative health changes associated with prolonged exposure to ethyl mercaptan. Notably, there was a marked decline in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduced glutathione (GSH), along with increased serum malondialdehyde (MDA), indicating heightened oxidative stress. Liver function was impaired, as shown by elevated levels of ALT, AST, and total bilirubin. Renal dysfunction was also indicated by increased serum urea and creatinine. Lipid profile disturbances were evident with higher total cholesterol and triglycerides. Furthermore, elevated levels of insulin- like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGHBP-2), homocysteine, cytokeratin fragment21-1 (CYFRA21-1), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (HsCRP) suggested systemic inflammation and potential early markers of carcinogenic or cardiovascular risk. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the toxicological impact of long-term occupational exposure to ethyl mercaptan and highlights the urgent need for improved workplace safety, regular monitoring, and preventive health measures to protect workers from associated health risks.

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