CO-CURE: Diagnostic Markers of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

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Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2008 15:40:16 -0600

From: LK Woodruff

Subject: Diagnostic Markers of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

Diagnostic Markers of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)

by G. Heuser, A. Wojdani, and S. Heuser

One hundred thirty five patients (75% females) were evaluated for complaints

of often disabling sensitivity to small concentrations of multiple chemicals

after chemical exposure in the recent or distant past.

A comprehensive evaluation of all subjectively involved systems showed a

high yield of abnormal objective findings on random (unrelated to time of

exposure) testing.

-->When properly timed, certain immune function tests (TA1 cells and

chemical antibody levels) became abnormal, or more abnormal, after

unintentional

self-reported acute exposure, and were thus shown to be potential markers of

multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS).

-->We suggest that appropriate tests of the central nervous system,

peripheral nervous system, nose and sinuses, pulmonary function, T-cell

subsets,

chemical antibodies and autoimmunity be performed.

.. If four of these seven systems show abnormality, the diagnosis of MCS is

supported.

.. If certain functions become abnormal or more abnormal after unintentional

significant exposure, the diagnosis is confirmed.

BACKGROUND

The senior author has directed a headache and chronic pain clinic for more

than ten years.

-->As clinical histories were taken in increasing detail over the years, it

became apparent that in many patients, headaches were triggered by chemicals

in the environment.

What appeared to be very small concentrations of perfumes, fumes, smoke and

mist, would trigger headaches in some patients but not in friends and family

members who were present in the same environment.

Eventually, the senior author realized that small amounts of chemicals

cannot only cause headaches but also a multitude of other complaints in some

patients.

This realization became a starting point for his increasing interest in

chemical sensitivity.

One of the co-authors (A.V.) is also chemically sensitive. This is why, as

an immunologist, he became interested in developing appropriate tests for

chemical sensitivity. He made chemical antibody testing commercially available

to

our patients.

The other co-author (S.H.) specializes in computer assisted medical

information.