Acute effects of some volatile organic compounds emitted from water-based paints

Objective: Acute effects during controlled exposure to some of the volatile organic compounds emitted from water-based paints were evaluated. Methods: Healthy volunteers (10 atopics, 10 nonatopics, and 10 painters) were exposed to a mixture of propyleneglycol, texanol, diethyleneglycol monoethylether, diethyleneglycol monobutyl ether, and dipropyleneglycol monomethyl ether at a total concentration of 35 mg/m(3) (G), a mixture of G and ammonia (15 mg/m(3)) (GA), and clean air (C). Results: Subjective ratings of irritation in eyes, nose, throat, and dyspnea were significantly higher during the G and GA conditions, when compared with during the C condition. Nasal mucosal swelling was observed after G but not after GA exposure. No effects of the exposure on the pulmonary function, markers of inflammation in nasal lavages, and renal function in urine were seen. Conclusion: Exposure to G and GA caused mild irritation in eyes, nose, and airways.