Clinical-laboratory classification for clinical management of workers exposed to benzene in gas stations

Introduction:  gas stations workers are exposed to volatile organic compounds, especially benzene. Clinical management of the broad spectrum of symptoms and signs observed in these workers is still a challenge for health care.

Objective:  to present a clinical-laboratory classification, based on hemogram analysis and clinical evaluation of workers exposed to benzene, as guidelines for health care professionals.

Methods:  the clinical-laboratory classification was defined based on priority-setting criteria for the results of clinical evaluations and health surveillance in order to allow the organization of health care flows and procedures.

Results:  the proposal defines the clinical management based on classification of workers exposed to benzene in four levels of clinical and laboratory alterations that determine procedures according to level of exposure and health effects: 1) without significant alterations; 2) unspecific or incomplete alterations; 3) clinical and/or laboratory alterations; and 4) alterations suggesting benzene poisoning.

Conclusion:  the proposal for classification of clinical and laboratory findings is potentially able to guide medical practice in the assessment of health conditions and risks of benzene exposure, and subsidize the systematic and continuous monitoring necessary for establishing health care practices offered to workers.

Keywords:
clinical management; hemogram; benzene poisoning; worker’s health