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Occupational asthma induced by chromium salts.
1Departamento de Medicina Interna, Hospital, La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
Allergologia Et Immunopathologia
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Occupational asthma linked to chromium salts exposure was observed in non-atopic patients with prior dermatitis. Bronchial provocation tests confirmed chromium-induced asthma, suggesting non-IgE mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Asthma can be occupationally induced by various environmental exposures.
- Chromium salts are known sensitizers, potentially affecting respiratory health in industrial settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bronchial asthma development in patients exposed to chromium salts in their workplace.
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of bronchial provocation tests (BPT) for chromium-induced asthma.
Main Methods:
- Case series of five non-atopic patients with occupational asthma.
- Skin prick tests (SPT) and BPT using chromium salt solutions (K2Cr2O5).
- Evaluation of immediate, dual, and late asthmatic reactions during BPT.
Main Results:
- All patients exhibited positive BPT to chromium salts, despite negative SPT.
- Control asthmatics showed negative responses to chromium BPT.
- Sodium cromoglycate failed to inhibit the BPT response.
Conclusions:
- Inhalation of chromium salts can specifically induce bronchial reactivity and asthma.
- The absence of immediate reactions and IgE-mediated evidence suggests alternative pathophysiologic pathways.
- Good prognosis is achievable with avoidance of chromium exposure.