A painter using spray paint without adequate respiratory protection develops peripheral neuropathy predominantly affecting the lower limbs after 3 years of exposure. The MOST likely causative neurotoxicant is:

• A Benzene
• B Toluene
• C Carbon tetrachloride
• D n-Hexane ✓

Explanation

n-Hexane, a common solvent in paints, glues, and adhesives, is metabolized to 2,5-hexanedione, which cross-links neurofilament proteins in axons causing a characteristic 'giant axonal neuropathy' with length-dependent (distal-predominant) peripheral neuropathy and atrophy. This is called 'hexacarbon neuropathy.' Benzene causes bone marrow aplasia and leukaemia. Toluene causes central demyelination (cerebellar, cerebral) but not predominantly peripheral neuropathy. Carbon tetrachloride causes hepatorenal toxicity.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.