Aluminium dust-induced lung disease in the pyro-powder-producing industry: detection by high-resolution computed tomography

Objective: The aim of this case study was to investigate the suitability of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) for detecting early stages of lung fibrosis induced by aluminium (Al) dust. Methods: A 40-year-old worker was studied who had worked as a stamper for 14 years in a plant producing aluminium powder and had been exposed to high levels of aluminium dust during this time. The investigation included the collection of general data on health and details on occupational history, immunological tests, a physical examination, lung function analysis, biological monitoring of Al in plasma and urine, chest X-rays and HRCT. Results: For many years the man has suffered from an exercise-induced shortness of breath. Lung function analysis revealed a reduction of the vital capacity to 57.5% of the predicted value. The Al concentration in plasma was 41.0 μg/l (upper reference value 10 μg/l) and in urine 407.4 μg/l upper reference value 15 μg/l, biological tolerance (BAT) value 200 μg/l] at the time of diagnosis. Chest X-ray showed unspecific changes. HRCT findings were characterised by small, centrilobular, nodular opacities and slightly thickened interlobular septae. Exposure to other fibrotic agents could be excluded. Conclusions: HRCT was more sensitive than chest X-rays for detecting this early stage of Al-dust-induced lung disease. The suitability of HRCT in the surveillance of workers highly exposed to aluminium powder should be evaluated in further studies. Biological monitoring can be used to define workers at high risk. Received: 29 March 1999 / Accepted: 26 August 1999