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Updated: Apr 21, 2026
Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Interstitial lung disorders in the indium workers of Korea: an update study for the relationship with biological
Sungyeul Choi1, Yong Lim Won, Dohyung Kim
1Occupational Safety and Health Research Institute, Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency, Ulsan, Korea.
Background:
Korea is one of the highest indium-consuming countries worldwide. The present study aims to determine the relationship between interstitial lung disorders and indium exposure in Korea.
Methods:
In 50 indium workers from seven plants, the effect of serum indium on the lungs was determined using laboratory tests, spirometry, and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT).
Results:
Higher serum indium and Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels were associated with HRCT-detected interstitial lung changes. Workers with high serum indium levels (≥3 µg/L) had longer exposure durations and a higher prevalence of HRCT-detected interstitial lung changes. KL-6 and surfactant protein-D (SP-D) levels were significantly higher in the highest serum indium quartile than the lowest quartile. Significant dose-effect relationships existed between serum indium levels and KL-6, SP-D levels and the prevalence of HRCT-detected interstitial lung changes.
Conclusions:
Workforce medical surveillance should be established to prevent indium-induced interstitial lung disease in Korea.
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