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Author Spotlight: Investigating the Pathophysiology of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
An Unusual Case of Eosinophilia
Aashika Sunil Janwadkar1, Jitendra Rajendra Ingole2
1Intern, Department of Internal Medicine, Smt. Kashibai Navale Medical College and General Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Abstract:
Various inflammatory markers have been used to show an association between welding and respiratory tract disorders due to inhalation of fumes. We hereby present a case of 19-year-old male, welder by occupation who presented with upper respiratory tract infection and was documented to have persistent moderate eosinophilia on serial Complete Blood Count (CBC) examination. This was also confirmed by bone marrow examination which was suggestive of increased eosinophilic precursors. Eosinophils are an inflammatory marker and are increased most commonly in respiratory tract of welders due to inhalation of metal fumes. Treatment with steroid is gratifying and provides short term symptomatic relief. Avoidance of metal fumes and/or change of job is the long term preventive measure. Welding occupation, as a risk factor, should be considered for causation of persistent respiratory tract inflammation with eosinophilia.
Insights
Welding fumes can cause persistent respiratory inflammation with eosinophilia, an increase in inflammatory cells. Avoiding fumes or changing jobs is recommended for welders to prevent this occupational health risk.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Immunology
Background:
- Welding is associated with respiratory issues due to fume inhalation.
- Inflammatory markers are often used to establish this link.
- Occupational exposure to metal fumes is a known risk factor for respiratory conditions.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male welder presented with an upper respiratory tract infection.
- Serial Complete Blood Count (CBC) revealed persistent moderate eosinophilia.
- Bone marrow examination confirmed increased eosinophilic precursors.
Findings:
- Eosinophils, a type of inflammatory marker, were significantly elevated in the welder.
- This elevation is linked to the inhalation of metal fumes during welding.
- The findings suggest welding occupation as a potential cause of persistent respiratory inflammation with eosinophilia.
Implications:
- Persistent respiratory inflammation with eosinophilia should be considered in welders.
- Steroid treatment offers short-term symptomatic relief.
- Long-term prevention involves avoiding metal fumes or changing occupation.
