SYMPTOMATIC PULMONARY DISEASE IN ARC WELDERS

Abstract
A case of symptomatic lung disease in arc welders was presented. The clinical picture is that of pulmonary fibrosis and advanced emphysema with polycythemia, secondary features of pulmonary hypertension, and right heart failure. Samples of the fumes were collected and showed excess iron oxide and free silica to the amount of 16%. Evidence of nonspecific fibrosis is found in lung biopsy. It was demonstrated that the explanation for the lung changes is excessive and prolonged exposure to arc welding fumes containing a combination of iron and free silica.

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