[Occupational allergic diseases in the steel industry. Population studies]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of occupational allergic diseases of the respiratory system and skin. The study was carried out in a population of 17,600 employees of Huta im. T. Sendzimira (T. Sendzimir Steelworks) in 1992-96. During this period 543 employees were referred to the Occupational Diseases Department with a suspection of occupational allergy. Connection between the kind of occupation and disease was confirmed in 215 cases. 104 (48%) suffered from upper respiratory tract diseases or bronchial asthma and 111 patients (52%) suffered from allergic skin disease as contact dermatitis of the hand or generalized dermatitis. The analysis showed that allergic skin diseases occurred more frequently in 1992-94 and allergenic respiratory diseases were more frequent in 1995-96. Industrial dust containing metals (nickel, chrome, iron, cooper) turned out to be the main allergic factor. The highest prevalence was observed in the Rolling-Mill Department, Chemistry of Coke Department and Incombustible Materials Department. 33% of patients suffering from allergic respiratory diseases and 10% suffering from allergic skin diseases had a family predisposition to allergy (features of atopy).