Occupational pulmonary aluminosis: a case report

Ind Health. 2014;52(2):147-51. doi: 10.2486/indhealth.2012-0154. Epub 2014 Jan 15.

Abstract

The authors present a case of occupational lung damage from exposure to dust containing aluminium. The first detected objective pathological finding was that of dispersed micronodules in the lungs seen in a chest radiograph. The final diagnosis of pulmonary aluminosis was established after three years of gradual exclusion of other interstitial lung diseases. The diagnosis was supported by the occupational history confirmed by hygiene assessment of the patient's workplace and especially by histological examination with elemental analysis of the lung tissue. The possibility of development of this rare condition should not be underestimated in workers at high-risk jobs.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aluminum / adverse effects*
  • Aviation*
  • Humans
  • Lung / diagnostic imaging
  • Lung / pathology
  • Male
  • Mechanics
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects
  • Pneumoconiosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Pneumoconiosis / etiology*
  • Pneumoconiosis / pathology
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Aluminum