[Serum immunoglobulin E concentration in workers producing chlorfenvinphos]

Organophosphorous pesticides exert sensitizing effects. Our investigations in workers of the chlorfenvinphos production department showed frequent incidence of the upper respiratory tract allergy as well as diminished specific airways conductance. The aim of the study is to assess serum immunoglobulin E concentration in the workers of the chemical plant department producing chlorfenvinphos. The study covered the entire staff of the department:--35 men aged 25-55 years, employed for 1-15 years. Chronic bronchitis was diagnosed in 13 (37.1%) workers; in none of the subjects examined bronchial asthma was found. Spirometry showed a lower Tiffeneau's index in 5 (14.3%) and impaired specific airways conductance in 11 (31.4%) workers. Air chlorfenvinphos concentration in the work environment did not exceed MAC level, the average concentration was 0.0008-0.0018 mg/m3, and the erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity was within normal range. Serum IgE concentration was evaluated with the enzyme immunoassay (Enzymun-Test IgE from Boehringer, Cat. No. 1289071), the results were compared with those of a control group of 30 healthy male inhabitants of the region, professionally not exposed to chemical noxes. Mean serum IgE concentration in the workers (109.6 +/- 120.0 IU/ml) was significantly (p < 0.01) higher as compared to the control group (51.1 +/- 36.4 IU/ml). In 14 (40.0%) workers the IgE concentration exceeded 100 IU/ml, whereas in the control group only in 4 (13.3%) people the IgE level was elevated. The results of our investigations provide support for an essential role of type I hypersensitivity reaction in the pathogenesis of inflammatory changes in the respiratory system caused by chlorfenvinphos.