engleski

Immunological and respiratory reactions in paper recycling workers

We studied the immunological status and respiratory function of 101 workers employed in paper recycling factory. In addition we tested 87 unexposed workers. Immunological studies were performedby skin prick tests with paper dust extracts as well as total IgE immunoglobulin determination. In all workers the prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms was obtained. Lung function was measured by recording maximum expiratory flow-volume (MEFV) curves on which FVC, FEV1, FEF50 and FEF25 were read. Among tested paper workers 1% had positive skin prick test to at least one of the paper extracts; none of the control workers reacted to these extracts. Increased serum IgE levels were found in 21% of the paper workers and in 5% of control workers (P<0,05). Paper workers with positive skin prick test to paper dust extracts had higher prevalences of chronic respiratory symptoms and lower lung function tests than those with negative skin prick tests. Our data suggest that work in the paper recycling industry is associated with immunological and respiratory impairment.

respiratory symptoms; prick test; total IgE; paper dust allergens; lung function

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