Utilization of Neurophysiological Protocols to Characterize Soldier Response to Irritant Gases. Phase 1.
Abstract
The Army Medical Research and Development Command has recognized the need to evaluate potential toxic hazards resulting from human exposures to irritant gases (Hydrogen chloride, ammonia, and formaldehyde) associated with weapons systems exhaust emissions. We have, within the scope of the Phase I Program exposed Long Evans rate to three levels of hydrogen chloride gas in flowing air. Hydrogen chloride, a respiratory irritant present in the exhausts of solid propellant weapon systems using ammonium perchlorate as the oxidizer, was selected for use in evaluating the feasibility of protocols employing quantitative neurophysiologic monitoring procedures as a means of assessment of the potential toxicological hazard to humans. This specific respiratory irritant was also selected because the of extensive prior experience by the project staff in the toxicological characteristics of hydrogen chloride. We have demonstrated, within the scope of the Phase I Program, our ability to detect early changes in nervous system activity using such quantitative neurophysiological monitoring techniques as (electroencephalographic monitoring, EEG; brainstem evoked response, BAER; somatosensory evoked potentials, SEP; and visual evoked potentials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 15, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADB160773
Entities
People
- Gary Moore
- Irving N. Einhorn