Biochemical Evaluation of Kidney Function in Industrial Workers Exposed to Chemical Solvents in Rivers State

Industrial workers in petrochemical and manufacturing facilities in Rivers State are routinely exposed to organic solvents that may exert nephrotoxic effects, yet systematic biochemical evaluation of kidney function in this workforce is rarely conducted. This study evaluates renal function parameters in workers exposed to chemical solvents at selected industrial facilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, compared to unexposed office workers from the same facilities. Sixty solvent-exposed workers and fifty unexposed controls were recruited. Fasting blood and spot urine samples were collected. Serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, cystatin C, and electrolytes were determined. Urine microalbumin and creatinine were quantified to derive the albumin-to-creatinine ratio as an early marker of renal tubular damage. Beta-2-microglobulin in urine was measured as a tubular injury biomarker. Duration of solvent exposure ranged from two to twenty years in the exposed group. Results show significantly elevated serum creatinine, urea, and cystatin C in solvent-exposed workers compared to controls. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratios exceeded 30 milligrams per gram in 38 percent of exposed workers, indicating microalbuminuria consistent with early nephropathy. Urinary beta-2-microglobulin was significantly elevated in the exposed group, confirming proximal tubular injury. Duration of solvent exposure correlated positively with both serum cystatin C and urinary microalbumin. These findings indicate significant subclinical nephrotoxicity in the studied workforce and recommend mandatory periodic renal function screening for solvent-exposed industrial workers in Rivers State. Keywords: kidney function, solvent exposure, industrial workers, cystatin C, Rivers State.