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. 2003 Jan;7(6):264–272. doi: 10.1007/BF02908885

Multiple chemical sensitivity and idiopathic environmental intolerance (part one)

Mitsuyasu Watanabe 1, Hideki Tonori 1,✉, Yoshiharu Aizawa 1
PMCID: PMC2723465  PMID: 21432395

Abstract

Multiple chemical sensitivity/idiopathic environmental intolerance (MCS/IEI) is a commonly used diagnostic term for a group of symptoms. These symptoms have been described and commented on for more than 15 years in the USA. Recently, it has also been observed in Japan. The main features of this syndrome are multiple symptoms involving in multiple organ systems that are precipitated by a variety of chemical substances with relapses and exacerbation under certain conditions when exposed to very low levels which do not affect the population at large. There are no laboratory markers or specific investigative findings. Although traditional medical organizations have not agreed on a definition for this syndrome due to the lack of obvious evidence to demonstrate the existence of these symptoms, it is being increasingly recognized. It constitutes an increasing percentage of the caseload at occupational/environmental medical clinics.

Part one of this review article discusses pathophysiological theories, substances which cause symptoms, prevalence in the general and specific populations, past history and family history, and clinical symptoms of MCS/IEI patients.

Key words: multiple chemical sensitivity, idiopathic environmental intolerance, chemical intolerance, pathophysiological theories, clinical symptoms

Abbreviation

IEI

Idiopathic environmental intolerance

MCS

Multiple chemical sensitivity

PGW

Persian Gult War

TDS

Time-dependent sensitization

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