Sensitivity multiple chemical T78.4

Chemical exposure-induced "hypersensitivity" characterized by recurrent symptoms in various organs (see also eco-syndrome).

Non-specific symptoms such as itching, burning skin, fatigue, sleep disturbances, irritability, memory disorders; diarrhea, shortness of breath, feelings of anxiety.

In"sick-building syndrome", exhalations from buildings and indoor spaces are blamed as the cause of the complaints.

In electrical hypersensitivity, electrosmog, for example from overhead power lines, is blamed as the cause.

In the case of Gulf War Syndrome, radioactive warfare agents are blamed for triggering fatigue and other non-specific symptoms.

• symptoms are reproducible by repeated exposure
• Symptoms are caused by low concentrations (lower than generally tolerated) of different agents
• Avoidance of exposure leads to improvement until full recovery
• Reactions to multiple chemically unrelated substances
• Symptoms concern multiple substances ( food additives, pesticides, drugs, indoor air pollutants, solvents, alcohols, perfume, cosmetics, clothing, plastics, chlorine, amalgam, car exhaust, ozone, etc.).

Sensitive skin syndrome: characteristic, subjective sensory perceptions such as a feeling of tension, abnormal stinging, burning, tingling, pain and itching defined, which significantly reduces the quality of life of those affected. Causative skin diseases are not present or can be excluded. Inconstantly associated is redness. Acceptable and objective screening tests are missing so far.

1. MCS-Consensus (1999) Multiple chemical sensitivity: a 1999 consensus. Arch Environ Health 54: 147-149
2. Eggermann T et al. (2003) Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) strategies to elucidate genetic predispositions. Allergology 26: 280-286