Low-Dose Occupational Exposure to Nickel and Thyroid Hormones

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a low-dose exposure to nickel, as it is present in urban air, on thyroid hormones and on thyrotropin in outdoor workers exposed to urban pollutants.

Materials and methods: A total of 164 outdoor workers were studied and divided by sex and smoking habit. Each worker underwent measurement of urinary nickel and of blood triiodothyronine, L-thyroxine, and thyrotropin levels. The statistical analysis was performed.

Results: Statistical analysis shows a significant and positive correlation between urinary nickel and L-thyroxine, both in total sample and in males.

Discussion and conclusion: The study suggests that occupational exposure to a low dose of nickel may affect thyroid function in municipal police workers. These data may provide information on other categories of outdoor workers with similar exposure.