Back to Search Start Over

[The effects of blue algae on health].

Authors :
van Riel AJ
Schets FM
Meulenbelt J
Source :
Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde [Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd] 2007 Aug 04; Vol. 151 (31), pp. 1723-8.
Publication Year :
2007

Abstract

Cyanobacteria (blue algae) regularly cause recreational waters to become murky and smelly. Skin irritation and mild gastrointestinal disorders have regularly been reported following recreational activities in water suspected of being contaminated with cyanobacteria. The exact cause of these effects on health is not clear. Severe effects are not to be expected from recreational exposure to water contaminated with cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria can produce hepatotoxins, neurotoxins, cytotoxins and irritants. In Brazil lethal intoxications have occurred due to the occurrence of toxins in drinking water and in dialysis fluid. The Dutch policy is based on the Commissie Integraal Waterbeheer (Commission Integral Water Management) guidelines for recreational waters. It is not clear to what extent the other cyanotoxins occur in the Netherlands. However, several genera ofcyanobacteria capable of producing these other cyanotoxins have been found in the Netherlands. For a good risk assessment in the Netherlands, more information is needed on the effects on health of cyanobacteria. There is also a need for more data on the prevalence of different cyanobacteria and toxins in Dutch recreational waters.

Details

Language :
Dutch; Flemish
ISSN :
0028-2162
Volume :
151
Issue :
31
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Nederlands tijdschrift voor geneeskunde
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
17784694