LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF EXPOSURE TO SULFUR-DIOXIDE - LUNG-FUNCTION 4 YEARS AFTER A PYRITE DUST EXPLOSION

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Abstract
Lung function of 7 men accidentally exposed to SO2 in a mine pyrite dust explosion was followed for 4 yr. The greatest decrease in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s and maximal midexpiratory flow was observed 1 wk after the incident. After about 3 mo. no further decrement occurred. The pattern of spirometric findings was obstructive in 6 and restrictive in 1 of the patients. Four years after the accident, reversible obstruction of the bronchi was still observable in 3. Four patients reacted positively to the histamine challenge test. Two patients either did not respond to bronchodilator or did not react to histamine. Results suggest that bronchial hyperreactivity is a frequent sequela of exposure to high concentrations of SO2. The hyperreactivity may persist for several years.