Welding and Parkinson's: Parkinsonism Due to Manganism: Welder Case Study

Welding and Parkinsonism

Parkinsonism Due to Manganism in a Welder: Case Study and Stages of Manganese Neurotoxicity

Manganese exposure can cause neurotixocity and a neurologic syndrome that resembles Parkinson's Disease (PD). In the case of welders, exposure to manganese alloys without respiratory protection can be toxic enough to cause manganese-induced Parkinsonism and Parkinson's Disease.

In the Fall 2003 International Journal of Toxicology, a study described a 33 year old welder with a 2 year history of progressive cognitive slowing, rigidity, tremors, slowing of movements, and gait instability leading to falls. The welder used steel-manganese alloy in the course of his work and did not wear respiratory protection. His symptoms and signs were similar to Parkinson's and the study concluded that welding can produce enough exposure to manganese to produce neurologic impairment.

Parkinsonism is a known feature of manganese exposure. The syndrome of manganese toxicity has been divided into three stages:

Behavioral changes
Parkinsonism
Dystonia with gait disturbances

Other symptoms manifest themselves in the form of muscle cramps, headaches, fatigue, monotone speech, slowness, expressionless face, tremor, rigidity, decreased hand dexterity, and gait and balance problems.

More about welding diseases on our Welding and Parkinson's Disease Information Page