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Sawmill alveolitis in Sweden
International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Swedish sawmill workers exposed to moldy wood develop alveolitis-like symptoms. Over 50% show Rhizopus antibodies, with higher mold exposure linked to febrile reactions, suggesting an allergic response to airborne mold.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Medicine
- Occupational Health
- Mycology
Background:
- Sawmill workers trimming moldy planks report short-lasting alveolitis-like symptoms.
- Exposure to airborne mold, specifically Rhizopus, is implicated in respiratory issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of alveolitis-like symptoms in Swedish sawmill workers.
- To identify the causative agent and pathogenetic mechanisms of these respiratory symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Double diffusion analyses to detect precipitating antibodies to Rhizopus antigen.
- Assessment of exposure levels to Rhizopus colony-forming units (Rcfu/m3).
- Clinical observation of symptoms including febrile reactions and respiratory function tests.
Main Results:
- Over 50% of wood trimmers exposed to >10(6) Rcfu/m3 had Rhizopus antibodies.
- 10-20% experienced febrile reactions at exposure levels >10(7) Rcfu/m3.
- Non-smokers with repeated symptoms showed high antibody titers; 5-10% prevalence estimated.
Conclusions:
- Airborne Rhizopus mold is a likely cause of alveolitis-like symptoms and respiratory issues in sawmill workers.
- The pathogenetic mechanism is similar to allergic alveolitis observed in wood chip burners.
- Preventive measures have potentially reduced the incidence of these occupational mold-related diseases.