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Occupational asthma in a mineral analysis laboratory
1Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Occupational asthma symptoms were investigated in laboratory workers exposed to acid vapors. Bronchial hyperreactivity and airflow obstruction were identified, suggesting inflammation from workplace irritants.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Workers in mineral analysis laboratories exposed to various acid vapors (hydrochloric, hydrofluoric, nitric, perchloric, sulfuric) reported symptoms suggestive of occupational asthma.
- A significant portion of the workforce experienced work-related respiratory symptoms, prompting an investigation into the cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate an epidemic of occupational asthma symptoms in a mineral analysis laboratory.
- To assess ventilatory capacity and bronchial reactivity in exposed workers.
- To determine the relationship between acid vapor exposure, bronchial hyperreactivity, and work-related symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Investigated an occupational asthma epidemic in a mineral analysis laboratory.
- Conducted serial measurements of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) to assess airflow obstruction.
- Performed ventilatory capacity tests and bronchial reactivity assessments (histamine challenge) on 20 laboratory staff.
- Collected data on work-related symptoms and atopic status.
Main Results:
- Variable airflow obstruction was confirmed in two subjects with significant FEV1 decline during work shifts.
- Five out of 20 subjects exhibited bronchial hyperreactivity (PC20 ≤ 8 mg/ml histamine).
- A strong association was found between bronchial hyperreactivity and work-related chest tightness (p < 0.01).
- Four hyperreactive subjects were atopic, suggesting potential pre-existing susceptibility.
- Bronchial reactivity normalized in two subjects after prolonged absence from work, indicating inflammation from occupational exposure.
Conclusions:
- Occupational exposure to acid vapors in mineral analysis laboratories can lead to bronchial hyperreactivity and symptoms consistent with occupational asthma.
- Pre-existing bronchial hyperreactivity, potentially linked to atopy, may predispose individuals to developing symptoms upon exposure.
- Preplacement examinations could help identify susceptible individuals.
- Reversibility of bronchial hyperreactivity after removal from exposure suggests an inflammatory process caused by occupational irritants.