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Asthma caused by occupational exposure to a furan-based binder system
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|December 1, 1980
Summary
Occupational asthma was triggered by furan binder components in a mold maker. Specific bronchial responsiveness to reaction products of furfuryl alcohol caused late asthmatic responses, highlighting workplace safety needs.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Respiratory Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Furan-based binders are increasingly used in industrial mold making.
- Occupational asthma is a significant concern in industries utilizing chemical binders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of severe asthma in a mold maker exposed to a furan binder.
- To identify specific agents within the furan binder system responsible for respiratory symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Case study of a 50-year-old mold maker with occupational asthma.
- Occupational exposure tests with resin, catalyst, and pure furfuryl alcohol mixtures.
- Peak flow rate measurements and bronchial responsiveness testing with histamine.
Main Results:
- Exposure to the mixed resin and catalyst, and furfuryl alcohol with acid/alcohol, provoked late asthmatic responses.
- Asthma symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness resolved upon avoidance of exposure.
- Neither resin nor catalyst alone triggered responses, indicating a reaction product was the cause.
Conclusions:
- Volatile reaction products of furfuryl alcohol with sulfuric acid or butyl alcohol can cause specific bronchial responsiveness and occupational asthma.
- The findings underscore the need for investigation into the incidence of furan binder-related respiratory issues.
- Workplace safety protocols may need revision for furan binder systems.
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