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A cluster of inflammatory rheumatic diseases in a moisture-damaged office

R Myllykangas-Luosujärvi1, M Seuri, T Husman

  • 1Department of Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital, P.O. Box 1777, FIN-70211 Kuopio, Finland. riitta.myllykangas-luosujarvi@kuh.fi

Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|January 2, 2003
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A cluster of inflammatory rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, emerged in an office workplace. This suggests a potential environmental trigger linked to indoor air quality issues from moisture damage and microbial growth.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Medicine
  • Rheumatology
  • Occupational Health

Background:

  • A persistent indoor air quality problem was noted in an office building.
  • Significant moisture damage and microbial contamination were identified on the building's exterior walls.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate a cluster of inflammatory rheumatic diseases within an office setting.
  • To explore the potential link between workplace environmental factors and disease development.

Main Methods:

  • Case histories of office personnel were analyzed.
  • Personnel work locations were mapped against areas of microbial contamination.
  • Incidence of rheumatic diseases was compared to regional statistics.

Main Results:

  • Ten cases of inflammatory rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriatic arthritis) were diagnosed between 1987-2000.
  • A significantly elevated incidence density ratio (6.8) was observed for all office personnel.
  • Personnel working near heavily contaminated walls showed a higher ratio (13.2).

Conclusions:

  • The concentration of chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases points to an environmental exposure.
  • The damp office environment with microbial growth is implicated as a potential trigger for these diseases.

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