Occupational Lung Disorders Flashcards
1
Q
What is occupational asthma?
A
- Asthma caused by stimuli in workplace
2
Q
What is pneumoconiosis?
A
- Occupational lung disease caused by dust inhalation
3
Q
What is the usual mechanism for occupational asthma?
A
- Exposure in workplace
- Allergens cause sensitisation - causing either IgE (in)dependent responses
- Irritants produced
- Both of the above 2 factors cause occupational asthma
4
Q
What factors and occupations can trigger occupational asthma?
A
- Dyes - fabric dyers
- Animal protein - Farmers
- PVC - Lab workers
- Acid Anhydrides - Paint and plastic manufacturers
- Metals - Welders
5
Q
CASE STUDY:
A 27 year old man presents with wheeze and dyspnoea 6 months after starting work in an aircraft maintenance facility. He started sneezing 4 months ago. The wheeze and sneezing attacks are getting worse. Non-smoker.
How would you assess him?
A
- Past history of asthma / rhinitis / hayfever
- Family history of asthma
- Spirometry
- Peak flow readings
- What does his work involve?
- Other occupational history
- Exposures at home - birds/cats etc
6
Q
Describe the assessment process for occupational asthma.
A
- Comprehensive history taking and assess for associated disorders
- Asthma diagnosis - through bronchial responsiveness to pharmacologic agents
- Immunological testing
- PEFR or spirometry recording/ BHR measurements
- Identification of agents causing asthma
7
Q
What should be done about occupational asthma in primary care?
A
- Confirm asthma
- Initiate peak flow readings
- Spirometry
- Look for rhinitis / eczema
- Take an occupational history
8
Q
What is asbestos?
A
- Naturally occurring silicate mineral
- Used in construction
- Fire resistant
9
Q
What are the main asbestos related lung diseases?
A
- Benign pleural disease (pleural plaques and diffuse pleural thinking)
- Asbestosis (pulmonary fibrosis)
- Asbestos related lung cancer
- Malignant mesothelioma
10
Q
What can extrinsic allergic alveolitis lead to?
A
- Cough
- SOB
- Headaches
- Myalgia
