[Isocyanate-induced respiratory tract diseases in Switzerland]

From 1980 to 1986 the Swiss National Accident Insurance Company (SUVA) recognized isocyanate-induced airway diseases as an occupational illness in 245 cases, which are presented retrospectively. Since isocyanates are widely used they are found at a large variety of workplaces. At present, isocyanates are the most frequent cause of occupational asthma in the Swiss industrial field. After complete avoidance of any further exposure respiratory symptoms persisted or airway obstruction could still be documented in one third of patients. An unfavourable prognosis is significantly associated with the following factors: (1) bronchial obstruction (FEVl/VC) at first pulmonary function test; (2) RAST positive for isocyanates; (3) long latency period between onset of symptoms and end of exposure. Therefore, individuals with isocyanate-induced airway diseases must be immediately removed from any further exposure to these substances.