Heavy metal exposure in patients suffering from electromagnetic hypersensitivity

Abstract

Background: Risks from electromagnetic devices are of considerable concern. Electrohypersensitive (EHS) persons attribute a variety of rather unspecific symptoms to the exposure to electromagnetic fields. The pathophysiology of EHS is unknown and therapy remains a challenge.

Objectives: Heavy metal load has been discussed as a potential factor in the symptomatology of EHS patients. The main objective of the study was to test the hypothesis of a link between EHS and heavy metal exposure.

Methods: We measured lead, mercury and cadmium concentrations in the blood of 132 patients (n=42 males and n=90 females) and 101 controls (n=34 males and n=67 females).

Results: Our results show that heavy metal load is of no concern in most cases of EHS but might play a role in exceptional cases.

Conclusions: The data do not support the general advice to heavy metal detoxification in EHS.