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Airway responsiveness in workers processing polyester resins
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|December 1, 1979
Summary
Polyester resin exposure acutely reduced lung function in workers. The autonomic nervous system influences this response, with propranolol worsening and atropine improving symptoms, suggesting a role in polyester resin-induced bronchoconstriction.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonary Physiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Polyester resins are used in various industries, including button manufacturing.
- Occupational exposure to industrial chemicals can lead to respiratory issues.
- The role of the autonomic nervous system in chemical-induced bronchoconstriction requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of polyester resin exposure on respiratory function in manufacturing plant employees.
- To determine the influence of the autonomic nervous system on polyester resin-induced airway responses.
- To assess the prevalence of acute and chronic respiratory symptoms in exposed workers.
Main Methods:
- Studied 22 employees in a button-manufacturing plant over an eight-hour work shift.
- Measured changes in maximum expiratory flow volume (MEFV) curves, specifically at MEF50% and MEF25%.
- Administered propranolol (80 mg) and atropine (1 mg) preshift to assess autonomic nervous system involvement.
Main Results:
- Exposure to polyester resins caused an acute reduction in MEFV flow rates (MEF50% and MEF25%).
- Preshift propranolol potentiated the bronchoconstricting effect, while atropine significantly inhibited it.
- High prevalence of acute symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, irritation) reported, but no significant chronic respiratory symptoms or obstruction were found.
Conclusions:
- Polyester resin exposure can lead to acute reductions in lung function.
- The autonomic nervous system plays a significant role in mediating airway smooth muscle responses to polyester resins.
- While acute symptoms are common, current evidence does not indicate a high prevalence of chronic respiratory issues or obstruction from this exposure.