Publication Date |
1996 |
Personal Author |
Jagielo, P. J.; Schwartz, D. A. |
Page Count |
6 |
Abstract |
Studies were conducted to determine whether inhalation of aqueous grain dust extract causes inflammation primarily localized in the airways and is associated with airflow obstruction; to determine how host factors such as age, and atopic status modulate the duration, intensity, and severity of these effects; and to study the reslts of repeated exposure in relation to physiologic and biologic tolerance. These studies demonstrated that extracts of grain dust are biologically active, able to produce acute physiologic changes as well as cause acute airway inflammation. Individuals exposed to grain dust during the handling or processing of grain are therefore at increased risk for the development of acute airflow obstruction and airway inflammation if exposed to significant levels of the dust. Acute physiologic and inflammatory responses following grain dust inhalation were associated with the concentration of endotoxin contained in the bioaerosol. The authors suggest therefore that it may be more important to monitor airborne levels of endotoxin in the work setting rather than total dust levels to minimize the risk of airway injury due to grain dust. While atopy alone plays a minor role in the development of grain dust induced airway disease, bronchial hyperreactivity as a host factor significantly affects the physiologic and biologic response to grain dust. |
Keywords |
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Source Agency |
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Corporate Authors |
Iowa Univ., Iowa City. Dept. of Internal Medicine.; National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH. |
Supplemental Notes |
Sponsored by National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH. |
Document Type |
Technical Report |
Title Note |
Rept. for 1 Aug 93-31 Jul 96. |
NTIS Issue Number |
199724 |