Evaluation of Immunotoxicity Due to Concurrent Exposure to DEET, Pyridostignine, and JP-8 Jet Fuel.
Abstract
Military personnel during the Gulf War were exposed to various compounds including N,N-diethyl-m-toluarmide (DEET), pyridostigmine bromide (PYR), and W-8 jet fuel. The effects of concurrent exposure to these agents co%could potentially result in significant health effects or contribute to the manifestations of Gulf War Syndrome. Adenopathy, fever, joint pain, and skin rash are reported by veterans and these signs may be linked to immune dysfunction. Recent studies indicate that neurotoxicity increases during concurrent exposure to both PYR and DEET with other agents. Due to known interdependencies of the immune and nervous systems, it is hypothesized that the effects of PYR and DEET may affect the immune system. Additionally, single low-level exposures to W-8 have been reported to significantly affect T- and B-lymphocyte populations. Thus, the possibility exists that combinations of DEET and PYR could exacerbate the effects of W-8 or cause a predisposition to other immune conditions such as autoimmune disease. Therefore, this investigation will evaluate the effects of concurrent exposure to these common military agents on immunological parameters (i.e., natural killer cell activity, macrophage function, etc.) and - susceptibility to diseases such as cancer, infections, and autoimmune disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA376819
Entities
People
- Deborah E. Keil
Organizations
- Medical University of South Carolina