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Occupational asthma in the salmon processing industry: a case series.
Carl Fredrik Fagernæs1,2, Hilde Brun Lauritzen3,2, Anders Tøndell4
1Department of Occupational Medicine, St Olavs Hospital Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway carl.fredrik.fagernes@stolav.no.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|August 13, 2024
Summary
Occupational asthma is common in salmon processing workers, often linked to IgE-mediated allergy to salmon. Early diagnosis and reduced exposure are crucial for managing this work-related respiratory condition.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Occupational asthma is a significant concern in the seafood processing industry.
- Exposure to bioaerosols in salmon processing is linked to asthma, but disease mechanisms and burden are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnostic findings, and potential mechanisms of occupational asthma in salmon processing workers.
- To highlight the need for improved diagnostic strategies and exposure reduction.
Main Methods:
- A patient register of salmon processing workers referred to an occupational medicine clinic (2019-2024) was analyzed.
- Workers underwent investigation according to occupational asthma guidelines, focusing on symptoms, work tasks, and clinical findings.
Main Results:
- 21 of 36 workers were diagnosed with occupational asthma, predominantly in filleting/slaughtering areas.
- Median latency to symptom onset was 4 years; 67% were sensitized to salmon, including some to specific parts like skin.
Conclusions:
- Occupational asthma in this group is clinically diverse, with IgE-mediated allergy to salmon being a key mechanism.
- Negative allergy tests occur in some cases, necessitating comprehensive workup including serial peak expiratory flow and skin prick tests.
- The significant case numbers underscore the need for enhanced exposure reduction strategies in salmon processing.
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