Apricot sulfurization: An occupation that induces an asthma-like syndrome in agricultural environments

Koksal N., HASANOĞLU H. C., Gokirmak M., Yildirim Z., GÜLTEK A.

American Journal of Industrial Medicine, vol.43, no.4, pp.447-453, 2003 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 43 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2003
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/ajim.10199
  • Journal Name: American Journal of Industrial Medicine
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.447-453
  • Keywords: Apricot sulfurization, Asthma-like syndrome, Pulmonary function tests, Respiratory symptoms, Sulfur dioxide
  • Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Background: Several cases of bronchial asthma have been presenting with acute attacks during the seasons of apricot sulfurization. The aim of this study was to reveal the effects of sulfur dioxide (SO2) exposure on the airways of the workers involved in this process. Methods: SO2 levels in air were measured on 15 apricot farms, while the symptom scores of 69 workers were recorded before, during, and after SO2 exposure. Physical examination and pulmonary function tests (PFT) of the workers were also done prior to and after exposure periods. Results: The measured SO2 concentrations ranged between 106.6 and 721.0 ppm. Dyspnea (80%), cough (78%), and eye and nose irritation (83-70%) were the most commonly observed symptoms. The workers had significant decreases in pulmonary functions after SO2 exposure. Decrements in FEV1, FEV1/FVC%, and FEF25-75% showed that the acute effect of SO2 on pulmonary functions of the workers was mostly of obstructive pattern. Conclusions: Acute exposure to SO2 induces "asthma-like syndrome" (ALS) in apricot sulfurization workers. SO2 which has not been previously reported in agricultural environments as a cause of ALS may be considered as a new agent. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.