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Immediate hypersensitivity type of occupational laryngitis in a welder exposed to welding fumes of stainless steel
Author(s) -
Hannu Timo,
Piipari Ritva,
Toskala Elina
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
american journal of industrial medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.7
H-Index - 104
eISSN - 1097-0274
pISSN - 0271-3586
DOI - 10.1002/ajim.20291
Subject(s) - medicine , occupational exposure , laryngitis , pneumoconiosis , welding , asbestosis , occupational safety and health , dermatology , surgery , medical emergency , metallurgy , pathology , lung , materials science
Background Although upper respiratory symptoms have been reported to occur in welders, occupational laryngitis of immediate hypersensitivity type due to welding fumes of stainless steel has not been previously reported. Methods Occupational laryngitis was diagnosed based on the specific challenge test combined with the patient's history of occupational exposure and laryngeal symptoms. Results During the past few years, a 50‐year‐old man had started to experience laryngeal symptoms while welding stainless steel. The welding challenge test with stainless steel caused significant changes in the laryngeal status 30 min after challenge: increased erythema, edema, and hoarseness of the voice. The referent inhalation challenge test by welding mild steel was negative. Conclusion The welding of stainless steel should be included in the etiological factors of occupational laryngitis of immediate hypersensitivity type. Am. J. Ind. Med. 49:402–405, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.