Role of manganese: Are welders at risk?

Abstract

Serious concerns exist among welders and occupational health investigators on the possible association between exposure to manganese via welding fumes and neurological effects. One suggestion is that exposure to welding fumes is associated with the development of Parkinson’s disease. This report is a review of literature that focuses on issues related to welders exposure to manganese and subsequent risk to develop Parkinson’s disease. Aspects of the essential element manganese, its presence in welding processes and its transport routes to the brain are briefly discussed. A description of the effects of manganese on the central nerve system is presented and the disorders related to the adverse effects of manganese are discussed. Next genetic factors that play a role in early-onset Parkinson’s disease are summarized and explained and neurological risks associated with welding fume exposure are discussed. The exact mechanisms of, and risks factors for, developing Parkinson’s disease are not yet fully understood, but currently, a lot of research on most of the mechanisms involved is ongoing. Nonetheless, sufficient evidence exists pointing at an association between manganese exposure and (the development of) Parkinson’s disease.