Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Pneumoconiosis in a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) spray worker: a case report with an occupational hygiene study: Namhoon Lee, Kiook Baek, Soohyun Park, Inho Hwang, Insung Chung, Wonil Choi, Hyera Jung, Miyoung Lee, Seonhee Yang; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:37. Published online June 4, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0248-6

Background

Using analysis of air samples from the workplace, we report on one case of pneumoconiosis in an individual who has been working in a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) spraying process for 28 years.

Case presentation

The patient was diagnosed with granulomatous lung disease caused by PTFE using computed tomography (CT), lung biopsy and electron microscopy. To assess the qualitative and quantitative exposure to PTFE in workplace, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were performed on air samples from the workplace. The presence of PTFE particles was confirmed, and the airborne concentration of PTFE was estimated to be 0.75 mg/m³.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates that long-term exposure to PTFE spraying can cause granulomatous lung lesions such as pneumoconiosis; such lesions appear to be caused not by the degradation products of PTFE from high temperatures but by spraying the particles of PTFE. Along with air-sampling analysis, we suggest monitoring the concentration of airborne PTFE particles related to chronic lung disease.

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Electrospun nanomembranes at the liquid–liquid and solid–liquid interface - a review
S. Osali, Y. ghiyasi, H. Esfahani, R. Jose, S. Ramakrishna
Materials Today.2023; 67: 151. CrossRef
Safety Assessment of Polyfluorinated Polymers as Used in Cosmetics
Wilbur Johnson, Wilma F. Bergfeld, Donald V. Belsito, Ronald A. Hill, Curtis D. Klaassen, Daniel C. Liebler, James G. Marks, Ronald C. Shank, Thomas J. Slaga, Paul W. Snyder, Monice Fiume, Bart Heldreth
International Journal of Toxicology.2023; 42(3_suppl): 144S. CrossRef
Occupational Lung Disease Caused by Exposure to Polytetrafluoroethylene
Ami Aoki, Akira Saito, Kenjiro Shima, Yosuke Kimura, Katsuaki Asakawa, Riuko Ohashi, Hajime Umezu, Takuro Sakagami, Hiroshi Moriyama, Toshiaki Kikuchi
Internal Medicine.2022; 61(24): 3713. CrossRef
Parkinson's disease in a worker exposed to insecticides at a greenhouse
Yangwoo Kim, Inah Kim, Jung-Min Sung, Jaechul Song
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
Occupational Bronchiolitis
Randall J. Nett, R. Reid Harvey, Kristin J. Cummings
Clinics in Chest Medicine.2020; 41(4): 661. CrossRef
ATIK ELEK ALTI POMZA MALZEMESİNİN KİLLİ ZEMİN ORTAMLARINDA MÜHENDİSLİK KARAKTERİSTİKLERİ BAKIMINDAN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Murat KALKAN, Can ERENSON
Bilimsel Madencilik Dergisi.2020;[Epub] CrossRef
Fluorine detection in the lung tissue of a worker with interstitial pulmonary fibrosis and long-term occupational exposure to polytetrafluoroethylene and perfluorooctanoic acid
Kelly J. Butnor, Jeffrey Covington, Douglas J. Taatjes, John DeWitt, Michele A. Von Turkovich
Ultrastructural Pathology.2020; 44(4-6): 496. CrossRef

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Silica exposure and work-relatedness evaluation for occupational cancer in Korea: Hyoung-Ryoul Kim, Boowook Kim, Bum Seak Jo, Ji-Won Lee; Ann Occup Environ Med 2018;30:4. Published online January 31, 2018; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-018-0216-1

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub

Crystalline silica has been classified as a definite carcinogen (Group 1) causing lung cancer by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In Korea, crystalline silica has been the most common causal agent for workers to apply to the Korea Workers’ Compensation and Welfare Service (KWCWS). We used KWCWS data to evaluate workers’ crystalline silica exposure levels according to their occupations and industries, and reviewed research papers describing the dose-response relationship between cumulative exposure levels and lung cancer incidence. In addition, we reviewed lung cancer cases accepted by the KWCWS, and suggest new criteria for defining occupational cancer caused by crystalline silica in Korea. Rather than confining to miners, we propose recognizing occupational lung cancer whenever workers with pneumoconiosis develop lung cancer, regardless of their industry. Simultaneous exposure and lag time should also be considered in evaluations of work-relatedness.

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The association between lung cancer and silicosis: from theory to practice in occupational medicine
Marina Ruxandra Oțelea
Romanian Journal of Occupational Medicine.2022; 73(1): 45. CrossRef
Occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica in municipal household waste collection and road cleaning workers
Boowook Kim, Eunyoung Kim, Wonseok Cha, Jungah Shin, Byung-Soon Choi, Daeho Kim, Miyeon Kim, Wonyang Kang, Sungwon Choi
Scientific Reports.2021;[Epub] CrossRef
Neuroprotective effects of sonochemical- synthesized SiO2 nanoparticles in vivo models of ischemic/reperfusion injury in stroke
Chengcheng Cui, Dayong Shen, Dandan Zuo, Xinchun Ye
Arabian Journal of Chemistry.2021; 14(11): 103416. CrossRef
Break-even Analysis of Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) Exposure Interventions in the Construction Sector
Emile Tompa, Amirabbas Mofidi, Chaojie Song, Victoria Arrandale, Katherine J. Jardine, Hugh Davies, Thomas Tenkate, Paul A. Demers
Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine.2021; 63(11): e792. CrossRef
Subradiological silicosis
Rodney Ehrlich, Jill Murray, David Rees
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2018; 61(11): 877. CrossRef

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Risk factors associated with mortality from pneumonia among patients with pneumoconiosis: Bum Seak Jo, Jongin Lee, YounMo Cho, Junsu Byun, Hyoung Ryoul Kim, Jung Wan Koo, Jun Pyo Myong; Ann Occup Environ Med 2016;28:19. Published online April 7, 2016; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s40557-016-0103-6

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Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate factors associated with increased risk of mortality from pneumonia among patients with pneumoconiosis.

Methods

Medical records of 103 pneumoconiosis patients hospitalized for pneumonia were investigated. Seven patients who had lung cancer or other malignancy and 13 patients with insufficient medical record were excluded. Two female patients were excluded due to small number to analyze. The subjects were divided into two groups by clinical outcome of pneumonia, the deceased group and the survival group. The two groups were compared in terms of age, smoking history, episode of recent pneumonia, concomitancy of interstitial fibrosis or fungal ball infection, extent of small opacities, grade of large opacities and results of spirometry. Multiple logistic regression was applied to determine the association between these variables and mortality from pneumonia.

Results

The deceased group showed more frequent history of recent pneumonia (p = 0.006), higher prevalence of interstitial fibrosis (p = 0.007) and longer hospitalization period (p = 0.044). The proportion of subjects who had decreased FVC, less than 70 % of predicted value, was higher in the deceased group (p < 0.001). In multiple logistic regression, after adjusting age, smoking history, recent pneumonia, fungal ball, large opacity, profusion and FVC (or FEV₁) less than 70 % of predicted value, history of recent pneumonia, concomitancy of interstitial fibrosis, type of pneumoconiosis and fungal ball presented statistically significant association with mortality from pneumonia.

Conclusions

The concomitancy of fungal ball or interstitial fibrosis, history of recent pneumonia within last 90 days, type of pneumoconiosis, FVC less than 70 % of predicted value, FEV₁ less than 70 % of predicted value presented statistically significant association with mortality from pneumonia. More attention should be given to patients who have such factors when treating pneumonia with pneumoconiosis.

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Co-occurrence of pneumoconiosis with COPD, pneumonia and lung cancer
N T Rayens, E A Rayens, R M Tighe
Occupational Medicine.2022; 72(8): 527. CrossRef
Influenza and pneumonia knowledge level and vaccination status of pneumoconiosis patients
Yusuf Samir HASANLI, Meral TÜRK, Emin ERDEM
Acta Medica Alanya.2022; 6(3): 263. CrossRef
Immunity Testing as a Stage of Forming the Immunocompromised Occupational Cohort for Vaccination against Pneumococcal Disease
TV Bushueva, NA Roslaya, AN Varaksin, MS Gagarina, OV Shirokova, AS Shastin, EP Artemenko, YuV Shalaumova, MS Vedernikova, AK Labzova
ЗДОРОВЬЕ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ И СРЕДА ОБИТАНИЯ - ЗНиСО / PUBLIC HEALTH AND LIFE ENVIRONMENT.2021; : 78. CrossRef
Immunological Risk Factors for Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Chrysotile Asbestos Workers
TV Bushueva, NA Roslaya, AV Ankudinova, AV Somova, AN Varaksin, AS Shastin, EP Artemenko, MS Vedernikova, AK Labzova, YuV Gribova, MS Gagarina
ЗДОРОВЬЕ НАСЕЛЕНИЯ И СРЕДА ОБИТАНИЯ - ЗНиСО / PUBLIC HEALTH AND LIFE ENVIRONMENT.2020; : 79. CrossRef
Association between Occupational and Radiological Factors and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Lung Infection in Workers with Prior Dust Exposure
Ji-Won Lee, Jun-Pyo Myong
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.2019; 16(11): 1966. CrossRef

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A Case of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis with Giant Cells in a Female Dental Technician: Yong-Hyun Kim, Yun Kyung Chung, Changhwan Kim, Eun suk Nam, Hyun-Jun Kim, Youngsu Joo; Ann Occup Environ Med 2013;25:19-19. Published online October 4, 2013; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/2052-4374-25-19

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Objectives

Dental technicians are exposed to methyl methacrylate(MMA) and hard metal dusts while working, and several cases of hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by the exposure have been reported. The authors experienced a case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a female dental technician who had 10 years’ work experience and report the case with clinical evidence.

Method

The patient’s work, personal, social, and past and present medical histories were investigated based on patient questioning and medical records. Furthermore, the workplace conditions and tools and materials the patient worked with were also evaluated. Next, the pathophysiology and risk factors of pneumonitis were studied, and studies on the relationship between hypersensitivity pneumonitis and a dental technician’s exposure to dust were reviewed. Any changes in the clinical course of her disease were noted for evaluation of the work-relatedness of the disease.

Results

The patient complained of cough and sputum for 1 year. In addition, while walking up the stairs, the patient was not able to ascend without resting due to dyspnea. She visited our emergency department due to epistaxis, and secondary hypertension was incidentally suspected. Laboratory tests including serologic, electrolyte, and endocrinologic tests and a simple chest radiograph showed no specific findings, but chest computed tomography revealed a centrilobular ground-glass pattern in both lung fields. A transbronchial biopsy was performed, and bronchoalveolar washing fluid was obtained. Among the findings of the laboratory tests, microcalcification, noncaseating granuloma containing foreign body-type giant cells, and metal particles within macrophages were identified histologically. Based on these results, hypersensitivity pneumonitis was diagnosed. The patient stopped working due to admission, and she completely quit her job within 2 months of restarting work due to reappearance of the symptoms.

Conclusion

In this study, the patient did not have typical radiologic findings, but pathological evaluation of the lung biopsy from the bronchoscope led to the suspicion of pneumonitis. Under the microscope, the sample contained fibrotic changes in the lung, multinucleated giant cells, and particles in macrophages and was diagnosed as dental technician pneumoconiosis by the pathology. Working as a dental technician had directly exposed her to light metal dust and MMA, and her clinical symptoms and radiologic findings subsided after withdrawal from exposure to the workplace. These outcomes led to the diagnosis of hypersensitity pneumonitis due to MMA exposure and strong work-relatedness.

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Interstitial pulmonary disease and aluminum trihydrate exposure: A single case report and detailed workplace analysis
Claudia Corwin, Hillary Waterhouse, Jerrold L. Abraham, Soma Sanyal, Judith A. Crawford, Matthew Caddell, Michael J. Hodgson
American Journal of Industrial Medicine.2024; 67(3): 274. CrossRef
The effect of Eucalyptol on SOD and IL-10 expression in mice exposed to Methyl methacrylate vapor
Sianiwati Goenharto, Elly Rusdiana, Sherman Salim, I Ketut Sudiana
Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology.2021; : 2999. CrossRef
Assessment and Management of Occupational Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
Iñigo Ojanguren, Vincent Ferraro, Julie Morisset, Xavier Muñoz, Jordan Fink, María Jesús Cruz
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice.2020; 8(10): 3295. CrossRef
Hard Metal Lung Disease: Update in Diagnosis and Management
Matthew Zheng, Robert M. Marron, Sameep Sehgal
Current Pulmonology Reports.2020; 9(2): 37. CrossRef
Hard Metal Lung Disease with Favorable Response to Corticosteroid Treatment: A Case Report and Literature Review
Yosuke Chiba, Takashi Kido, Masahiro Tahara, Keishi Oda, Shingo Noguchi, Toshinori Kawanami, Mitsuru Yokoyama, Kazuhiro Yatera
The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine.2019; 247(1): 51. CrossRef
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Mridu Gulati, Ann Teng
Clinical Pulmonary Medicine.2015; 22(3): 133. CrossRef

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A Case of Sarcoidosis in a Stonemason Exposed to Crystalline Silica: Young Seung Cho, Kyeong Yeon Kim, Hyoung Gyu Yoon, Jung Wan Koo; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2012;24(2):189-194. Published online June 30, 2012; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2012.24.2.189

Abstract PDF: BACKGROUND
Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease that can affect any organ, the exact cause of which is uncertain. Currently, investigations of crystalline silica improve the mechanism how it works the course of autoimmune diseases and some hypothesis supports that it also can attribute to sarcoidosis.
CASE
REPORT: The patient was a 53-year-old male, who works as a stonemason for 30 years. Sarcoidosis was suspected based on his chest X-ray and CT(Computed tomography). A biopsy was performed and he was indeed diagnosed with sarcoidosis.
CONCLUSION
It is thought that sarcoidosis is more prevalent in the people who work at places with a risk of exposure to crystalline silica. This case suggests that if a patient gets sarcoidosis after being exposed to crystalline silica, or after once being diagnosed with silicosis, his or her sarcoidosis may have occurred due to exposure to crystalline silica.

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Clusters of Pneumoconiosis among Residents Near Cement Factories: Jong Han Leem, Jae Hwa Cho, Eui Cheol Lee, Jeong Hoon Kim, Dong Hoon Lee, Seung Jun Lee, Ji Young Lee, Hwan Cheol Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2010;22(2):140-145. Published online June 30, 2010; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2010.22.2.140

Abstract PDF

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated case clusters of pneumoconiosis among residents near cement factories in Young_Wol, Korea.
METHODS
There were 1,396 residents of a total 3,418 residents surveyed for this study. Informations on demographics, health-related behaviors (smoking and drinking), past medical history, and clinical symptoms were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. All study participants underwent a physical examination, including chest X-ray, and physicians' interview. Chest CT (computerized tomography) was taken if there was abnormal finding on chest X-ray and physicians' interview.
RESULTS
We detected 5 cases of pneumoconiosis. 2 cases were related to occupational exposure to dust, such as underground mining and the breaking up of concrete. However, 3 cases were not related to occupational or environmental exposure, except that persons were living near cement factories and limestone mines.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that the long-term exposure of cement dust among residents near cement factories and mines may lead to the development of pneumoconiosis.

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Emphysema prevalence related air pollution caused by a cement plant
Hyun Seung Lee, Chul Gab Lee, Dong Hun Kim, Han Soo Song, Min Soo Jung, Jae Yoon Kim, Choong Hee Park, Seung Chul Ahn, Seung Do Yu
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
Ventilation impairment of residents around a cement plant
Sul Ha Kim, Chul Gab Lee, Han Soo Song, Hyun Seung Lee, Min Soo Jung, Jae Yoon Kim, Choong Hee Park, Seung Chul Ahn, Seung Do Yu
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2015;[Epub] CrossRef
A Study on the Results of Questionnaire Survey and Health Examination for Respiratory Disease among Residents in Briquette Fuel Complex in Ansim, Daegu
Kwan Lee, Hyun-Sul Lim, Min-Gi Kim, Young-Sun Min, Young-Hyun Lee, Sung-Woo Kim, Hye-Sook Choi, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Joon Sakong, Seung-do Yu, Geun-Bae Kim, Mi-Ra Yoon
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(3): 355. CrossRef
Cement dust and environmental diseases
Jong-Han Leem
Journal of the Korean Medical Association.2012; 55(3): 230. CrossRef

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A Case of Caplan's Syndrome with Silicosis: Jun Pyo Myong, Kyeong Yeon Kim, Young Lim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2008;20(2):160-164. Published online June 30, 2008; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2008.20.2.160

Abstract PDF

BACKGROUND
Caplan originally described a condition, now reffered to as Caplan's syndrome or Caplan's disease, where progressive massive fibrosis was exhibited by coal miners with multiple pulmonary nodules, and rheumatoid arthritis. This syndrome is very rare in Korea.
CASE
REPORT: The patient was a 49-year old male, with occupational history as a stonemason for 25 years. Silicosis was diagnosed by chest X-ray, while rheumatoid arthritis was diagnosed by immunological examination. Caplan's syndrome was confirmed based on these findings, occupational history, and clinical symptoms.
DISCUSSION
The authors report on the patient's Caplan's syndrome, with a particular focus on his silicosis.

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Overlap syndrome with Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic sclerosis in a steel rolling mill worker: a case report
Min-Kee Yi, Won-Jun Choi, Sung-Woo Han, Seng-Ho Song, Dong-Hoon Lee, Sun Young Kyung, Sang-Hwan Han
Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.2016;[Epub] CrossRef
A Case of Rheumatoid Pneumoconiosis Presenting with Pleuritis and Pericarditis
Myung Soo Park, Dae Gil Kang, Eun Ju Jung, Ki Jong Oh, Jong Seop Sim, Eun Jung Kim, Changhwan Kim
Korean Journal of Medicine.2013; 84(3): 428. CrossRef
A Case of Caplan's Syndrome Presenting as Acute Onset Polyarthritis
Han Hee Ryu, Sung Hae Chang, Hye Won Kim, Kichul Shin, Eun Bong Lee, Jae Joon Yim, Yeong Wook Song
Journal of Rheumatic Diseases.2011; 18(1): 36. CrossRef

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The Association between Pneumoconiosis and Genetic Polymorphism of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, NAT2, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1: Cha Jae Oh, Moon Young Hwang, Kang Jin Lee, Hoo Rak Lee, Byung Mann Cho; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2005;17(2):85-94. Published online June 30, 2005; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2005.17.2.85

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
To investigate effects of genetic polymorphism of glutathione S-transferase M1 (GSTM1), glutathione S-transferase T1 (GSTT1), glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1), N-acetyltransferase (NAT2), cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) on pneumoconiosis.
METHODS
Eighty-five pneumoconiosis patients and 122 age and sex matched healthy controls were enrolled. Direct interview and standard questionnaire were conducted and the genotypes of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, NAT2, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1 were investigated using multiplex PCR or PCR-RFLP methods with DNA extracted from venous blood. The relationship was investigated between the severity of pneumoconiosis and the polymorphism of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, NAT2, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1, and also with various environmental factors including smoking.
RESULTS
We observed a significantly higher rate of genetic polymorphism in pneumoconiosis patients than in normal subjects. The odds ratio (95% CI) of NAT2 was 2.09 (1.19-3.68). In addition, smoking was related significantly with pneumoconiosis (OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.40-5.95). In multiple logistic regression analyses, NAT2 and smoking were significant risk factors for the development of pneumoconiosis (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.00-3.37; OR 2.98, 95% CI 1.40-6.35, respectively). The age of onset of the disease and smoking were significantly related with moderate or severe pneumoconiosis (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.83-0.99; OR 6.94, 95% CI 1.54-31.30, respectively). However there was no significant difference between the rate of genetic polymorphism of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1 in the two groups.
CONCLUSION
NAT2 genetic polymorphism was higher in pneumoconiosis patients than in normal subjects. The age of onset of the disease and smoking were significantly related with pneumoconiosis. However, the genetic polymorphism of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, CYP2E1 and CYP1A1 was not related with development or severity of pneumoconiosis.

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Effect of Human Immunoglobulin G in Pneumoconiotic Patients with Pneumonia: Je Hyuk Mun, Jin Suk Chung, Kyoung Ah Kim, Young Lim, Ho Woo Nam, Joong Soo Han; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(2):134-142. Published online June 30, 2002; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.2.134

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
It is well known that pneumoconiotic patients experience impairments of macrophage function, as well as poor penetration of drugs into the fibrotic nodules and the immune system. Resultantly, pneumonia is frequently involved in pneumoconiotic patients and its treatment is not easy. Therefore, we conducted a clinical evaluation of immunoglobulin G which is known to be effective in severe infectious diseases.
METHODS
We randomly selected 45 pneumoconiotic patients with pneumonia and classified them into 2 groups. The experimental group (IgG group) was scheduled to receive antibiotics and IgG (5 g I.V./day for 7 days). The control group was treated with antibiotics alone. Sputum gram stain (counts of WBCs and microorganisms), body temperature, arterial oxygen tension, and counts of peripheral venous blood leukocytes and band neutrophils were used as markers to assess the response effect therapy at time periods of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after completion of therapy. We compared the clinical scores between the two groups.
RESULTS
The experimental IgG treated group was composed of 27 patients, and the control group comprised 18 patients. There was no statistical differences between two groups in terms of age, pneumoconiotic profusion, impairment degree of pulmonary function, or frequency of pathogen isolation in the sputum before medication. The experimental IgG treated group showed lower clinical scores as compared with the control group (p=0.083).
CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that IgG infusion with antibiotics will have an effect on pneumonia therapy in pneumoconiosis patients that are under 60 years and exhibit simple pneumoconiosis.

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The Role of TNFalpha Gene Promoter Polymorphism in the Development of Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis: Byoung Yong Ahn, Kyoung Ah Kim, Hae Yun Nam, Je Hyeok Mun, Jin Sook Jeoung, Young Lim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2002;14(2):117-123. Published online June 30, 2002; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2002.14.2.117

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
This study was performed in order to investigate the frequency of the TNF2 allele in patients with coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP).
METHODS
We compared the genotype distribution of TNFalpha gene promoter polymorphism between 80 CWP patients and 54 healthy controls.
RESULTS
The results were as follows : 1. The rare allele TNF2 was significantly more frequent in CWP patients (20.6 %) than in controls (10.2 %). 2. The spontaneous or LPS-induced release of TNFalpha from the peripheral monocytes was slightly increased in the TNF2 group, but these values were not significantly different between groups. 3. In the CWP TNF2 group, the increase of LPS-induced TNFalpha release was significant in comparison with that of the controls.
CONCLUSIONS
From the above results, we suggest that the TNF2 allele is strongly associated with susceptibility to CWP development.

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The Serum Copper and Zinc Concentration according to the Progression of Pneumoconiosis: Jung Rae Park, Jong Wook Park, Su Ill Lee, Cheol Ho Yi, Cha Jae O, Chang Won Kim, Byung Mann Cho, Don Kyoun Kim; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(3):384-394. Published online September 30, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.3.384

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
Copper and Zinc, the trace elements of a living body, take a part in immunologic mechanism and induce the pulmonary fibrosis which is the pathologic progress of pneumoconiosis. This study was performed to assist the identification of the pathologic process of pulmonary fibrosis in pneumoconiosis.
METHODS
The subjects of this study was 200 diagnosed persons as pneumoconiosis, of whom 100 persons was the visitors in the outpatients departments of pneumoconiosis and 100 admissive pneumoconiosis patients. The serum copper and zinc are measured and com pared.
RESULTS
The mean serum copper concentration of visitor group was significantly higher than that of control group, and that of stage V3 subgroup of visitor group was highest because of their advanced fibrosis. But, there was not the difference of serum copper concentration between patient and control group. We thought that the reason was poor nutritional and health status of the patient. The mean of serum zinc concentration of visitor and patient control was lower than that of control group. As the degree of pulmonary fibrosis was more severe from stage Vl, V2, V3 of visitor to stage Pl, P2, P3 of patient, the mean of serum zinc concentration was lower. The ratio of serum copper/zinc of visitor and patient was higher than that of control, and that of patient was higher than that of visitor. Those results showed that the ratio of serum copper/zinc ratio more greatly expressed the degree of progression of pneumoconiosis than only copper or zinc concentration by adjustment of nutritional and health status of the patient.
CONCLUSIONS
As above study results, the degree of pulmonary fibrosis of pneumoconiosis could be estimated by means of serum copper/zinc ratio.

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The Incidence Rate of the Pneumoconiosis among Retired Coal Miners: Yong Hee Cheon; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000;12(1):93-98. Published online March 31, 2000; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.2000.12.1.93

Abstract PDF: OBJECTIVES
The incidence rate of pneumoconiosis among retired coal miners was studied at Taebackchungang hospital.
METHODS
Newly developed pneumoconiosis0=1/0) cases were gathered from films of ex-coal miners who were diagnosed as normal at the previous examination after retirement.
RESULTS
228 exminers were confirmed as normal at the previous examination after retirement. 37 ex-miners were diagnosed as pneumoconiosis (equal or greater than 1/0) at the next examination.
CONCLUSIONS
The incidence rate was 29.5/1000 person-year. The incidence was calculated by the examined year. In 1995, 1996, 1997, the incidence rates were 104. 8, 37. 1, 14.1 per 1000 person-year respectively. There was no development of pneumoconiosis among retired coal miners who retired more than 20 years ago or who worked less than 10 years.

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Clinical Application of Polymerase Chain Reaction for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Pneumoconiotic Patient: Jae Hee Park, Chul Jae Lim, Kyung Hye Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1998;10(1):20-28. Published online February 28, 1998; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1998.10.1.20

Abstract PDF: Recent development in thepolymerase chain reaction (PCR) has brought an extraordinary opportunity for the rapid detection of M. tuberculosis in clinical specimens for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Pneumoconiosis is a sort of pulmonary fibrosis consequent to inhalation of the respirable dust. The association between pulmonary tuberculosis and pneumoconiosis is well recognized. There is a 10-fold increase in the tuberculosis risk among the workers who have pneumoconiosis demonstrated by chest roentgenogram. The physicians managing the patients with pneumoconiosis have to maintain a high index of suspicion for the development of mycobacterial infection, since the diagnosis of tuberculosis is often difficult. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a very slow growing organism and acid-fast bacillus (AFB) staining frequently shows false negative results, and therefore PCR would be a very rapid, easy and sensitive diagnostic method for the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in pneumoconiotic patients. To compare the PCR method with the conventional methods in diagnosing Mycobacterium tuberculosis in sputum, we used the sputa of 115 pneumoconiosis patients in Munkyeong Cheil Hospital. Of 32 pulmonary tuberculosis in the pneumoconiosis patients, 29 were PCR positive and were higher than 28, 20 positive by culture and AFB stain. Overall sensitivity, specificity, and which were 90.6, 91.5 % respectively for the PCR assay, 87.5, 100 % for the culture method ; 62.5, 98.7 % for the AFB stain. The PCR assay is a rapid, efficient, sensitive method which can detect M. tuberculosis directly in pneumoconiosis patients, and further study should be followed for the development of the easier method.

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Factors affecting Reading Agreement of Pneumoconiotic Findings: Byung Soon Choi; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):614-627. Published online December 31, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.614

Abstract PDF

To find the factors affecting reading agreement of pneumoconiotic findings of simple chest P-A films and to develop the definite quality assurance (Q.A) program for the reading of pneumoconiosis, I gathered the reading reports of the previously developed forty four chest films from nationwide thirty nine radiologists and compared those with the findings decided by the stepwise panel readings of the highly qualified eight radiologists. The reading agreement of profusion by complete or short classification was higher in the radiologists with sufficient reading experiences of pneumoconiosis during residency training. It was also higher in the radiologists with reference to ILO standard films or those working in the agencies for pneumoconiosis within one category of profusion by complete classification. Other factors were not related with the reading agreement of profusion. In small opacity and pleural thickening, there were not any consistent and meaningful findings between the reading agreement and radiologists' characteristics. From the above results, it is necessary to develop the Q.A program to improve the reading agreement of pneumoconiotic findings, especially small opacity and pleural lesions.

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The First Report on Evaluating the Thoracic Radiology of the Medical Institutions for Pneumoconiosis in Korea
Won-Jeong Lee, Jai Soung Park, Sung Jin Kim, Kyung-Sun Ko, Sang-Deok Chu, So Young Park, Byung-Soon Choi
Journal of the Korean Society of Radiology.2010; 63(5): 431. CrossRef

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Pneumoconiosis with Workers of Manufacturing Industry in Incheon: Yeon Soon Ahn, Kyoo Sang Kim, Ho Keun Chung, Il Soon Whang, Jaehoon Roh; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(4):589-603. Published online December 31, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.4.589

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Most of pneumoconiosis found in Korea can be categorized in coal worker's pneumoconiosis. However, in recent years, pneumoconiosis has been frequently found in the workers of manufacturing factories. Accordingly, this study was carried out to investigate relationship of dust exposure history and development and progress of pneumoconiosis. Chest radiographs, history of dust exposure, and other data of 144 workers, who were diagnosed as suspecter pneumoconiosis (0/l) or pneumoconiosis in special health examination center in Incheon from 1986 to 1996, were reviewed. The results were as follows ; 1. According to the type of main exposure, most common type of exposure was foundry dust(93workers, 64.6%), followed by welding fume(16workers, 11.1%), talc dust, lime dust and etc. 2. Among 144 workers, the history of dust exposure was investigated in 86 workers. Mean ages of 86 workers at the present study, initial exposure to the dusts, and at the time of initial diagnosis as having pneumoconiosis were 52.1, 29.1 and 46.5 years, respectively. The mean duration of exposure was 17.3 years. 3. Comparing the type of main exposure with dust exposure history, initially exposed age of welders, foundry workers, workers exposed to coal dust and other dusts were 24.6, 30.7, 28.0 and 28.5 years, respectively. Ages at the time of diagnosis as having pneumoconiosis of welders, foundry workers, coal dust and other dusts were 41.3, 49.3, 46.4 and 44.1 years, respectively. The duration of exposure to main dust of welders, foundry workers, workers exposed to coal dust and other dusts were 16.8, 18.2, 13.3 and 11.6 years, respectively. Therefore initially exposed age was significant difference between the welders and the foundry workers (p<.05). Age which was diagnosed pneumoconiosis was significant difference between the welders, workers exposed to other dusts and the foundry workers (p<.01). And exposure duration of main dust was significant difference between the workers exposed to other dusts and foundry workers (p<.01) 4. Initially diagnosed X-ray category of the workers were category 0/l (76workers, 52.8%), 1/0 (35workers, 24.3%) Therefore, workers' pneumoconiosis of manufacturing factories was mild, relatively. And there was no significant difference between initially diagnosed X-ray category of the workers and dust exposure history. 5. Among 97 workers, who could follow up more than 1 year, 60 workers(61.9%) were not changed, 24 workers (24.7%) were progressed, 13 workers (13.4%) were improved in their initially diagnosed X-ray category. Among 11 welders, initially diagnosed X-ray category of 5 welders(45.5%) were improved and of only 1 welder was progressed. But, among 19 workers exposed to other dusts, 10 (52.6%) workers were progressed and none of them were improved. 6. Among 53 workers, who were Initially diagnosed X-ray category was 0/l, 12 workers (22.6%) were progressed and 5 workers (9.4%) were improved in their initially diagnosed X-ray category. And among 40 workers, who were initially diagnosed X-ray category was 1, 12 workers(30.0%) were progressed and 7 workers(17.5%) were improved. Above results suggest that not a few workers of manufacturing factories have pneumoconiosis and their pneumoconiosis is progressed. Therefore, we have to prepare management plan and to study epidemiologic findings of pneumoconiosis with workers of manufacturing factories.

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Cause-Specific Mortality Due to Malignant and Non-Malignant Disease in Korean Foundry Workers
Jin-Ha Yoon, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Suminori Akiba
PLoS ONE.2014; 9(2): e88264. CrossRef
Occupational Diseases in Korea
Seong-Kyu Kang, Eun A Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S4. CrossRef

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The Measurement of IL-1, 8, TNF for the Diagnosis of Pneumoconiosis: Young Lim, Kyoung Ah Kim, Im Goung Yun; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1997;9(1):17-25. Published online February 28, 1997; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1997.9.1.17

Abstract PDF

Many acute and chronic lung diseased including pneumoconiosis are characterized by the presence of increased numbers of activated macrophages. These macrophages generate several inflammatory cell chemoattractants, by which neutrophil migrate from vascular compartment to the alveolar space. Recruited neutrophils secrete toxic oxygen radicals or proteolytic enzymes and induce inflammatory response. Continuing inflammatory response results in alteration of the pulmonary structure and irreversible fibrosis. Recently, a polypeptide with specific neutrophil chemotactic activity, interleukin-8 (IL-8), has been cloned and isolated from a number of cells such as: monocytes, macrophages and fibroblasts. IL-1 and/or TNF-alpha preceded for the synthesis of IL-8, and we already observed high level of IL-1 and TNF-alpha in vivo experiments. So we hypothesized that IL-8 might play a central role in the pathogenesis of pneumoconiosis. In order to evaluate the clinical utility of IL-1, IL-8, TNF as a biomarker in the early diagnosis of pneumoconiosis, we investigated the increase of IL-1, 8, TNF in the pneumoconiotic patient and the significant (p<0.05) correlation between IL-8 level and progression of pneumoconiosis.

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The Effects of Air-borne Particulate Matters on the Alveolar Macrophages for the TNF-α and IL-1β Secretion
Tian Zhu Li, Soo-Jin Lee, Se-Jong Park, Byung-Joon Chang, Jong-Hwan Lee, Kil-Soo Kim, Myoung-Heon Lee, Nong-Hoon Choe
Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases.2006; 60(5): 554. CrossRef

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Radiological discrimination of cor pulmonale with pulmonary function and electrocardiography finding in coal workers pneumoconiosis: Yong Hee Cheon; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(3):446-453. Published online December 31, 1996; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.3.446

Abstract PDF: The radiological finding, pulmonary ventilatory function test data, electrocardiography data were used for the study of relationship between these variables in cor pulmonale and normal group in coal Workers pneumoconiosis. The hospital records of 674 men who were diagnosed as coal workers pneumoconiosis were analysed. The ratio between interhilar distance and thoracic transverse diameter was used as a criterion in grouping of cor pulmonale. If. the ratio is greater than 0.36, it was classified, to cor pulmonale. The squared canonical correlation of pulmonary function variable to cor pulmonale grouping was less than 0.15. Logistic regression analysis with pulmonary function variable and electrocardiographic variable showed sensitivity 50.5%, specificity 72.2%, correctness 62.2%. Vital capacity and Forced vital capacity showed significantly decreased value in cor pulmonale group after adjustment of covariates( age, degree of dyspnea, pack-years of smoking, perfusion of small and large opacity).

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Development of Coalworkers' Pneumoconiosis in Korea: Risk Factors and Incidence Density: Byung Soon Choi; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1996;8(1):137-152. Published online February 29, 1996; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1996.8.1.137

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Pneumoconiosis, especially Coal-workers' Pneumoconi6sis(GWP), is the principal occupation-related disease in Korea because of the large number of affected workers. Coal mines and miners have been reduced abruptly during recent 8 years, but coal mining should be kept in Korea. Recently, pneumoconiotic workers are increasing in manufacturing industry. It is necessary to know the characteristics of CWP to prevent the development of CWP and manage employed or retired pneumoconiotic workers. Furthermore, it is also necessary to study CWP to protect workers from pneumoconiosis in manufacturing industry. Of the total of 6,452 workers who were diagnosed as CWP initially during the 20 years from 1973 to 1992, X-ray category was as follows: category 1(35.2%), category 2(23.1%), suspicious (0/1 category, 13.4%), category 3(5.7%), large opacity (3.5%), unknown by. complete classification (19.1%). The patients' cardiopulmonary disability was as follows: no disability 79.3%, slight 14.2%, mild 4.1%, moderate 1.9%, severe 0.5%. The patients' X-ray category and disability were not related with the initially exposed age or job position, but their severity was positively related with the exposed duration that was adjusted by the initially exposed age. Also, the patients' X-ray category and disability had positive relationship each other. The cumulative exposure dose of silica/was more important than that'of respirable dust in the. development of large opacity CWP. The annual incidence density of CWP was 73.2 persons in 1982 and 75.8 persons in 1986per 10,000 person years. Afterthen it has been gradually decreasing and was in the range of 20-30 persons in the period of 1989-1992.

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The clinical value of F-18 FDG PET/CT in differentiating malignant from benign lesions in pneumoconiosis patients
Eun Kyoung Choi, Hye Lim Park, Ie Ryung Yoo, Seung Joon Kim, Young Kyoon Kim
European Radiology.2020; 30(1): 442. CrossRef
A Study on the Results of Questionnaire Survey and Health Examination for Respiratory Disease among Residents in Briquette Fuel Complex in Ansim, Daegu
Kwan Lee, Hyun-Sul Lim, Min-Gi Kim, Young-Sun Min, Young-Hyun Lee, Sung-Woo Kim, Hye-Sook Choi, Yeon-Soon Ahn, Joon Sakong, Seung-do Yu, Geun-Bae Kim, Mi-Ra Yoon
Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene.2015; 25(3): 355. CrossRef
Current Status of Pneumoconiosis Patients in Korea
Byung-Soon Choi, So Young Park, Joung Oh Lee
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S13. CrossRef
The Clinical Significance of Bronchial Anthracofibrosis Associated with Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis
Mi Hye Kim, Hong Yeul Lee, Ki Ho Nam, Jae Min Lim, Bock Hyun Jung, Dae Sick Ryu
Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases.2010; 68(2): 67. CrossRef

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Comparison of Radiological Methods for the Study and Diagnosis of Pneumoconiosis: Simple Radiography and Computed Tomography: Byung Soon Choi; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1995;7(2):390-424. Published online October 31, 1995; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1995.7.2.390

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The classification for pneumoconiosis which was developed by International Labour Office(ILO) on the basis of Radiological findings of simple chest radiography has been widely used for the study and diagnosis of pneumoconiosis. But many problems have been revealed during the pneumoconiosis study using this classification. Those problems come from simple radiography itself or classification systems. Among those, inter-reader and intra-reader variability are the severest problems, even though many efforts have been devoted to lessen the variability. With introduction of computed tomography (conventional CT and HRCT), we are learning many new aspects about the occupational lung diseases, especially pneumoconiosis. So the studies for pneumoconiosis using tomography are reviewed, focusing on silicosis, coalworkers' pneumoconiosis, and asbestosis. But in our country, the studies of that kind are very scant. It is necessary to study and diagnose pneumoconiosis by CT, because that is the need of workers and the responsibility of physicians working in the field of occupational medicine. CT is superior to simple radiography in early detection, determination of severity, and follow-up of pneumoconiosis. But simple radiography is and should be the main method for the study and diagnosis of pneumoconiosis. Although, because of radiation hazard, cost, time, and geographical availability, the method can not and should not be used on the routine basis, we have to consider the use of CT, if possible and if necessary. Before using CT widely, we should develop the standardized criteria regarding to scanning methods and reading criteria. If not, the same problems as those of simple radiography will be occurred, and then there will be no progress in occupational medicine and workers' health.

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The First Report on Evaluating the Thoracic Radiology of the Medical Institutions for Pneumoconiosis in Korea
Won-Jeong Lee, Jai Soung Park, Sung Jin Kim, Kyung-Sun Ko, Sang-Deok Chu, So Young Park, Byung-Soon Choi
Journal of the Korean Society of Radiology.2010; 63(5): 431. CrossRef

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A Post-examination Health Care Status of Workers with Pneumoconiosis in Manufacturing Factories: Sung Goon Kim, Jaehoon Roh, Yeon Seon Ahn; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1994;6(2):421-428. Published online September 30, 1994; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1994.6.2.421

Abstract PDF: Most of the pneumoconiosis, which is common occupational diseases, is found here in Korea can be Gategorized to coal miner's pneumoconiosis. However, recently pneumoconiosis has been found in tHe workers of manufacturing factories, Periodic Health examination is important not only detection of occupationsl disease but also post-examination Health care of occupational disease patient. Accordingly, to study post-examination Health GaTe statHs of workers with pneumoconiosis diagnosed from 1991 to 1993 in the perioaic Health examination, all 43 pneumoconiosis patients in 22 manufacturing factories in Incheon were reviewed. Chest radiologic findings of 43 workers were suspected pneumoconiosis (20 workers, 46.5%) , pneumoconiosis stage 1(20 workers, 45.5%) and pneumoconiosis stage II (3 workers, 7.0%) . Among the 1.espondents, 40 workers (93.0%) answered that they received their health examination results and 24 werkers (55.8%) Had reguest for compensation of occupationsl disease. Only 14 workers(32.6%) Had changed their workplace while 21 workers (48.8%) did not. Reasons for not taking the post-examination health care enough were worker's ignorance of adminstrative process for Compensation (28 workers,65.1%) , mild status of dlsease (6 workers, 14.0%) and financial problem (3 workers, 7.0%) . Post~examination health care of the workers diagnosed as pneumoconiosis had significant correlation with the presence of health care manager in workplace and the employer concerns for occupational disease of workers. The improvement of working environment is related witH the presence of labor union in workplace. These results suggested that the presence of health care manager in the workplace and concerns for workers health by employer were important in performing appropriate post-examination health care for workers with pneumoconiosis in manufacturing factories.

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Welder' Pneumoconiosis of Shipyard and related Factors: Hae Sook Sohn, Seong Yong Choi, Young Jin Yu, Chae Un Lee; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1994;6(1):143-152. Published online February 28, 1994; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1994.6.1.143

Abstract PDF

Pneumoconiosis is one of the most important occupational disease in Korea. In Pusan, most of pneumoconiosis is welders' pneumoconiosis developed in shipyard. With clinical (including interview with every patients) and radiological (chest radiographs) methods, author purposed to know the factors related to development of pneumoconiosis in shipyard welders and to apply the results to the concept for health care (management) of shipyard welders. The prevalence rate of welders' pneumoconiosis was calculated by the means of reading of chest radiographs of 547 shipyard welders. The prevalence rate of welders' pneumoconiosis (including suspected pneumoconiosis, category 0/1) was 7.9%. It was lower than that (8.9%) in same area studied in 1989. Prevalence rate increased as total welding duration increased and the welding work began early. It was higher in welders who did not use antidust mask. Probability of the occurance of welder's pneumoconiosis was related with the time that the welder began welding work. Sixteen cases among the 37 who were diagnosed as pneumoconiosis returned normal in the follow-up chest radiographs. There was no case aggrevated. The pertinent management for the personnels and their working environment contributed to the decrease of incidence of the welders' pneumoconiosis and the improvement of the disease. To prevent the occurance of the pneumoconiosis in shipyard welders, it seems to be necessary for the company to be supervised under the any legislation and to educate the welder to use the protective apparatus. It is suggested that considerate and continuous observation under the adequate management is preferable to the immediate conversion of the working department for the pneumoconiotic welders.

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Occupational Diseases in Korea
Seong-Kyu Kang, Eun A Kim
Journal of Korean Medical Science.2010; 25(Suppl): S4. CrossRef

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Activities of Serum Lactate Dehydrohenase and Lactate Dehydrogenase Isoenzymes Activities by Small Opacity Groups on Chest Radiographs in Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis Patients: Ho Deun chung, Jeong Pyo Hong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1990;2(2):206-211. Published online August 31, 1990; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1990.2.2.206

Abstract PDF: Serum lactate degydrogenase (LD) and LD isoenzyme activities were evaluated in sera from 74 patients of coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP) to investigate biochemical changes of these enzyme activities according to radiographical profusions of CWP. Subjects were participated patients in the detailed examination of pneumoconiosis in December 1989. LD activities were evaluated by lactate to pyruvate methods and isoenzyme activities were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis. And small opacity profusions on chest radiographs of subjects were evaluated by radiologist. The results were as follows: 1. LD activities were not significantly different among categories of radiographical profusions. 2. LD4 activities were shown difference significantly among categories of radiographical profusions (category 1: 8.2+/-2.69 U/l, category 2: 10.1+/-3.90, category 3: 10.6+/-2.63; p<0.05). 3. Activities of LD(1), LD(2), LD(3), and LD(5) were not different significantly among categories of radiographical profusions.
Conclusion
ly, serum LD(4) activity seems to be increased by fibroplasia of CWP, but increasing activities of LD4 should not affect serum LD activities significantly.

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A Study on the Psychological Symptoms of Hospitalized Pneumoconiosis Patients: Comparison with pneumoconiosis Examinees, Coal Miners, and Other Manual Workers: Kyung Young Rhee, Ho Keun Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1990;2(2):166-178. Published online August 31, 1990; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1990.2.2.166

Abstract PDF: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hospitalization and diagnosis of disease on the mental health of coal workers' pneumoconiosis patient. The study subjects were composed of four groups for comparison; hospitalized coal workers' pneumoconiosis, healthy coal miners, and railroad workers employed by government. About a hundred of respondents in each group were sampled by random. Mental health data were collected by symptom distress checklist 90 (SCL-90), and other characteristics were collected by interview with questionnaire administered trained interviewers in each respondents. Mental health dimension was classified into 9 dimensions; somatization, obsessive-compulsiveness, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostality, phobic anxiety, paranoid, psychosis. And as total index, global severity index, positive symptoms total, positive symptom distress index were also computed. As a result there is difference of mean score of 9 symptom dimensions among four groups. The mean score of the examinees of depth diagnosis of the impressed coal workers' pneumoconiosis is the highest score in all 9 symptom dimensions. However in the hospitalized coal workers' pneumoconiosis scores of somatization, depression, anxiety, and phobic anxiety were still higher than that of healthy coal miners. And other symptom dimensions were not different from that of healthy coal miners.

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The Serum Alpha-antitrypsin Concentration of Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Patients: Bong Suk Cha, Ho Keun Chung, Jeong Pyo Hong; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1990;2(1):34-43. Published online February 28, 1990; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1990.2.1.34

Abstract PDF: This study was performed to investigate associations between serum alpha(1)-antitrypsin(AAT) concentration and radiological categories of coal workers' pneumoconlosis(CWP), between AAT concentration and pulmonary complications such as tuberculosis and emphysema, and to study associations between AAT concentration and FEV(1.0)% in CWP patients, We classified 254 CWP patients in D Hospital into categories of small opacity profusion. And we selected 86 subjects by with or without emphysematous finding in each categories by proportional stratified sampling method. Semm AAT concentrations were quantkated by single radial immunodiffusion method, and the findings of chest radiographs were evaluated by radilogist. The results were as follows: 1. Serum AAT concentrations were not significantly different among groups of radiological categories of small opacities. 2. Complication of emphysema was associated with smoking habits sigmficantlyl(chi square=12.16, p<0,01). And AAT concentraLion was higher in smokers and ex-smokers than in non-smokers. Serum AAT concentration was significantly higher in the cases with emphysema than in the cdses without emphybema{p<0.01). 3. Serum AAT concentration of the group with active pulmonary tuberculosis was significantly higher than with inactive or without: pulmonary tuberculosis group(p<0.1). 4. Serum AAT concentration of the group with low FEV(1.0)% was significantly higher than with high or normal group(p<0.05).

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Smoking Habit of Coal Workers' Pneumoconiosis Patients: Their Relationship to the Findings of Chest Radiographs: Jeong Pyo Hong, Ho Keun Chung; Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 1990;2(1):23-33. Published online February 28, 1990; DOI: https://doi.org/10.35371/kjoem.1990.2.1.23

Abstract PDF: No abstract available.

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