Immunologic findings and ventilatory function in cotton industry workers
Zuskin, E.; Kanceljak, B.; Mustajbegović, J.; Kern, J.; Tonković-Lojović, M.
Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada i Toksikologiju 42(4): 349-357
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-1254 PMID: 1815489 Document Number: 375495
Immunological testing was carried out in 24 cotton workers and in 30 control workers. Skin prick test was performed with allergens prepared from cotton dust and cotton seed. Skin tests were positive in 33.3% and IgE level was increased in 62.5% of the cotton workers. Only two 3.3% had positive skin tests and none had increased IgE serum level. Ventilatory capacity in cotton workers with positive skin tests and those with negative skin tests was comparable. The same was true of the workers with increased and normal IgE levels. The effect of cotton dust extract on isolated tracheal smooth muscle of a guinea pig was an indication of a direct irritative action causing airway obstruction.