Neurotoksilisuse

Neurotoksilisuse, or neurotoxicity, is the adverse effect on the nervous system caused by chemical, biological, or environmental agents. The term is sometimes rendered as a genitive form in some languages, but in practice it denotes a broad range of interactions between toxic substances and neural tissue that can affect the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Neurotoxicity can be acute, occurring soon after exposure, or chronic, developing after prolonged or repeated contact.

Common causes include heavy metals (such as lead and mercury), organic solvents, pesticides (notably organophosphates), alcohol, certain drugs and pharmaceuticals, and cyanotoxins. Exposure can occur occupationally, environmentally, or through medical treatments and contaminated food or water. Susceptible populations include children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting health conditions or genetic predispositions.

Mechanisms of neurotoxicity are diverse and may involve disruption of neurotransmitter systems, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, demyelination, or direct neuronal injury. Clinical presentation varies with the toxicant and exposure pattern, ranging from headaches, dizziness, and mood changes to cognitive impairment, motor coordination problems, neuropathic pain, seizures, or coma.

Diagnosis relies on exposure history, clinical examination, and supportive testing such as biomarkers, neuroimaging, neurophysiological studies, and neuropsychological assessments. Management focuses on stopping exposure, treating acute effects, and supportive care; specific antidotes or chelation therapy may be appropriate for certain substances. Prevention emphasizes safety protocols, environmental controls, monitoring of at-risk populations, and regulatory measures to limit hazardous exposures. Research continues to clarify mechanisms, improve diagnostics, and guide public health interventions.