A worker in a printing press develops Raynaud's phenomenon, peripheral neuropathy and a positive urine coproporphyrin test. Which occupational toxin is most likely responsible?

• A Benzene
• B Carbon disulphide
• C Mercury
• D Lead ✓

Explanation

Lead poisoning is common in printing press workers (exposure to lead type), battery manufacturing, and paint industries. The clinical features of chronic lead poisoning include peripheral neuropathy (wrist/foot drop), Raynaud's phenomenon, and disruption of haem synthesis — leading to elevated coproporphyrin III in urine (Benson's test), elevated delta-ALA and stippled RBCs. Mercury causes 'mad hatter's syndrome' (tremor, gingivitis); benzene causes aplastic anaemia.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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