Which are the causes of Toxic Oil Syndrome?

Toxic Oil Syndrome (TOS) is a rare and severe illness that emerged in Spain in 1981, affecting thousands of people and causing hundreds of deaths. The exact cause of TOS has been a subject of extensive research and investigation. While the definitive cause has not been conclusively identified, several factors have been implicated in the development of this syndrome.

Contaminated rapeseed oil: One of the primary causes of TOS is believed to be the consumption of rapeseed oil that was contaminated with aniline derivatives. During the 1981 epidemic, a batch of cooking oil was illegally denatured with aniline-based industrial oils, which were cheaper and intended for industrial use. The contaminated oil was then sold as olive oil or cooking oil, leading to widespread exposure and subsequent illness.

Aniline derivatives: Aniline derivatives, specifically 2,4,6-triaminoanisole (TAA) and 2,4-diaminoanisole (DAA), are considered the toxic components responsible for the development of TOS. These compounds are formed during the chemical breakdown of aniline-based industrial oils. When consumed, they can cause severe damage to various organs, including the lungs, heart, and nervous system.

Immune system response: The immune system plays a crucial role in the development of TOS. It is believed that the aniline derivatives present in the contaminated oil trigger an immune response, leading to the production of antibodies. These antibodies can then bind to proteins in the body, forming immune complexes. The deposition of these complexes in various tissues can cause inflammation and damage, contributing to the symptoms of TOS.

Individual susceptibility: Not everyone who consumed the contaminated oil developed TOS, indicating that individual susceptibility plays a role in the development of the syndrome. Factors such as age, gender, genetic predisposition, and overall health may influence an individual's susceptibility to the toxic effects of the contaminated oil. Additionally, the duration and level of exposure to the contaminated oil may also contribute to the likelihood of developing TOS.

Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as the storage and handling of the contaminated oil, may have also played a role in the severity and spread of TOS. Improper storage conditions, exposure to heat, and prolonged use of the contaminated oil could have increased the concentration of aniline derivatives, making the oil more toxic.

Conclusion: While the exact cause of Toxic Oil Syndrome has not been definitively determined, the consumption of contaminated rapeseed oil containing aniline derivatives is considered the primary cause. The immune system response and individual susceptibility also contribute to the development of the syndrome. Further research and investigation are necessary to fully understand the complex factors involved in TOS and to prevent similar outbreaks in the future.