Background: Medical screening and surveillance with the blood beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) results in the identification of both beryllium sensitization (BeS) and chronic beryllium disease (CBD). BeS has been shown to precede CBD, but the frequency and rate of progression from sensitization to disease is unknown.
Methods: Between 1987 and 1997 we have identified 75 individuals with BeS who, at the time of their initial assessment, had repeatedly abnormal blood BeLPTs without demonstrable CBD. We follow this cohort of patients every two years with clinical evaluation including transbronchial lung biopsy.
Results: Of our 75 patients, 46 (61.3%) have been reevaluated, ten more than once. Eleven of the 46 patients (23.9%) have developed CBD demonstrated by granulomas on biopsy. The follow-up period from BeS to disease development was 2.6 years (1.0 - 9.5 years) resulting in a conversion rate of 9.2% per year. Follow-up time for the other 35 patients was 2.9 years (0.6 - 7.3 years). If we conservatively assume that none of the 29 other subjects progress, the frequency of progression is 14.7%; 5.6% per year. However, not all BeS patients may develop granulomatous lung disease.
Conclusions: BeS progresses into CBD at a rate of 5.6% to 9% per year, though not all BeS progress. Beryllium-sensitized patients merit medical counseling and surveillance for signs of progression to disease.
This research was supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cooperative Agreement No. U60/CCU812221
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Occupational Health,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.