[Bronchial asthma caused by isocyanate in the internal/external environment]

Di-isocyanates have resulted in sensitizing and bronchial asthma in 4-5% of exposed workers in industry. A case of bronchial asthma is described in which the primary sensitization occurred during the period 1968-1970 as a result of work in a factory producing polyurethane plastic foam. The patient sought other employment on account of severe asthmatic symptoms and was, thereafter, symptom-free for 15 years. He was then engaged in a factory in the neighbourhood of the plastic foam factory and the asthmatic symptoms recurred on account of exposure via the external environment. The influences of various public authorities on handling of this case are described.