[Neurotoxic workshop materials: II. Organic substances--a review of the years 1970 to 1982].

This paper summarizes the knowledge and recent research of some organic neurotoxic substances at the workplace concerning peripheral nervous system. The review covers the substances: acrylamide, n-hexane, methyl-n-butylketone, n-pentane, n-heptane, carbondisulfide, styrene, toluene, trichloroethylene, tri-ortho-cresylphosphate and other organophosphorus compounds, polyhalogenated and complex organic compounds and solvent-mixtures. First the chemical and physical properties, the toxicokinetic and biotransformation as well as possibilities of exposure at the workplace are given. Following the characteristics after acute and chronic intoxications. The effects to the peripheral nervous systems due to short- and longtime exposure of the substance are described. Field studies in exposed workers and neurophysiological investigations with evaluation of dose-effect-relationships are reviewed especially. Each section is discussed and evaluated in respect to occupational medicine.