[Occupational allergic diseases in the steel industry. Population studies]. / Alergiczne choroby zawodowe w hutnictwie. Badania populacyjne.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of occupational allergic diseases of the respiratory system and skin. The study was carried out in a population of 17,600 employees of Huta im. T. Sendzimira (T. Sendzimir Steelworks) in 1992-96. During this period 543 employees were referred to the Occupational Diseases Department with a suspection of occupational allergy. Connection between the kind of occupation and disease was confirmed in 215 cases. 104 (48%) suffered from upper respiratory tract diseases or bronchial asthma and 111 patients (52%) suffered from allergic skin disease as contact dermatitis of the hand or generalized dermatitis. The analysis showed that allergic skin diseases occurred more frequently in 1992-94 and allergenic respiratory diseases were more frequent in 1995-96. Industrial dust containing metals (nickel, chrome, iron, cooper) turned out to be the main allergic factor. The highest prevalence was observed in the Rolling-Mill Department, Chemistry of Coke Department and Incombustible Materials Department. 33% of patients suffering from allergic respiratory diseases and 10% suffering from allergic skin diseases had a family predisposition to allergy (features of atopy).

Obstruction of the small airways in the spirometric diagnosis of occupational bronchial asthma.

The aim of this study was to evaluate spirometric changes after inhalation challenge in steel and tobacco factory workers suffering from bronchial asthma suspected to be of occupational origin. In 49 patients the spirometric changes were analyzed immediately after and 24 h (delayed reaction) after inhalation challenge at work. A decrease in spirometric parameters of 20% compared to baseline was considered significant. The suspicion of occupational bronchial asthma was based on anamnesis and skin patch tests. The atopy features in examined patients were evaluated according to anamnesis, skin prick tests with aeroallergens, as well as total IgE serum level and blood eosinophils. The significant decrease in spirometric parameters after the inhalation challenge at work was confirmed in 25 (51%) patients. In 16 of them (64%), the decrease of FEV1 value together with the decrease of the MEF 25-75% VC values were noted. A significant isolated decrease in the FEV1 was observed in only four (16%) patients. However, in five (20%) patients a significant decrease in MEF 25-75% VC values was only found as a confirmation of airways obstruction. The studies emphasize the diagnostic value of small airways obstruction in the evaluation of inhalation challenge tests in patients suspected of occupational bronchial asthma.