[Air pollution emissions and changes in lung function]

Among the environmental hazards in a modern industrial society, air pollutants are of major significance. They can directly affect the cells of the bronchopulmonary system and lead to an irritation of the epithelial and immunocompetent cells. This results in a decreased secretion of immunoglobulin A, and, consequently, a decreased resistance against infections. Thereby pathogens, especially bacteria, may lead to an inflammation of the respiratory tract. Apart from the direct toxic effect of their pollutants, recurrent inflammations eventually lead to small airway obstruction. The spirometric parameters FVC, FEV1 and MEF50 were reduced. IgA concentration in the saliva was determined by means of immunodiffusion and was found to be reduced when compared to a less exposed group. A series of pathogenic germs were isolated from various mucous membranes (conjunctiva, nose/throat). The median immissions for the children examined were 1.345 mg/m3 SO2 and 0.189 mg/m3 HCl.