[Respiratory system reactions to organic aerosol exposure]

The effects of organic aerosols (coffee, teas, spices, confectionery, soy, animal feed) on the respiratory system of workers occupationally exposed to these aerosols are presented. Described are possible mechanisms responsible for the development of respiratory impairment. Our studies indicate the possibility of development of respiratory impairment in exposed workers. The prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms and diseases varied from 2.7 to 56.3% and of acute symptoms from 9.9 to 78.9% of exposed workers. Statistically significant acute reductions of ventilatory capacity (FVC, FEV1, FEF50, FEF25) were recorded during the work shift. Described are some immunological changes which can develop in exposure to organic aerosols. Experimental studies with water organic dust extracts on isolated guinea pig trachea suggest that bronchoconstrictive changes in humans may be reproduced in non-sensitized guinea pigs. The need for taking preventive medical examinations in order to prevent development of respiratory and/or immunological impairment is stressed.