High Prevalence of Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Diseases among Turkish Tinners

Abstract

High Prevalence of Diffuse ParenchymalLung Diseases among Turkish Tinners: Oner DIKENSOY, et al. Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Gaziantep University, Turkey-The objective is to investigate the prevalence of parenchymal lung diseases among tinners. Twenty-four tinners who signed an informed consent form in the Gaziantep area were the subjects of this study. Demographics, spirometric test results, and high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans were obtained for all the tinners. Out of 24 tinners, eleven tinners (46%) had HRCTs consistent with DPLD. Of these 11 subjects, HRCT findings were consistent with respiratory bronchiolitis interstitial lung disease in nine, usual interstitial pneumonia pattern in one, and non-specific interstitial pneumonia in one. HRCT patterns consistent with DPLDs are significantly prevalent among Turkish tinners. This is the first field study reporting this occupational lung hazard in tinners. Future research is needed to uncover the underlying mechanisms. (J Occup Health 2008; 50: 208-211)

Interstitial Lung Disease in Coppersmiths in High Serum Copper Levels

“…In our country, diffuse parenchymal lung diseases were detected with a ratio of 46% in Turkish tinners who were exposed to high copper concentration [2]. In our study, this ratio was detected as 56.6% higher than the other Turkish study.…”

“…In our country, limited number of people works in the field of this ancient occupation. A study from Gaziantep-a city of Turkey-reported the radiologic findings of tinners, a similar group to coppersmiths [2]. In one study, tissue concentrations of copper in brain, lung, and kidney were significantly higher among the smelter workers than in the controls group.…”

“…This is an ancient occupation practiced for centuries in Turkey. Nowadays, number of coppersmiths are decreasing significantly due to the fact that copper has lost its popularity to steel and aluminum which are the most common metals used in the production of kitchen appliances [2].…”

“…While heating copper, irritant hot fumes can cause significant pulmonary effects. Also, chronic exposure to high temperature during heating copper may result in the development of stannosis, a benign pneumoconiosis [2].…”

Relationships Between Respiratory Function Disorders and Serum Copper Levels in Copper Mineworkers

“…Therefore, the measurement of trace elements may allow the better detection of airway diseases as well as give further insight into lung inflammation in diseases. In our country, diffuse parenchymal lung diseases have been detected with a ratio of 46% in Turkish illicit tinner users who were exposed to high Cu concentration [33]. In another study, this ratio was detected as being 56.6% in coppersmiths [11].…”