2014
Volume 14, Number 4, ppp. 107–110
Delayed cognitive impairment and pilot incapacitation following contaminated air inhalation
L.W. Coxon
PO Box 967, Canning Bridge/Applecross, Western Australia, Australia 6153
The specific problems associated with low-level, chronic neurotoxic chemical exposures are discussed from the viewpoint of clinical and forensic psychology. The timescales associated with the deterioration of cognitive functions may be very lengthy, making even diagnosis, let alone establishing causation, challenging. Three brief case studies of pilots exposed to many fume events and presenting with neuropsychological deficits are described. Deficits such as long reaction time, slow and information processing and executive dysfunction imply a safety risk in emergency situations.
Keywords: brain speed, chemical exposure, clinical psychology, forensic psychology, memory