Original scientific paper
Pulmonary Function in Persons Who are Professionally Exposed to Formaldehyde Fumes
Ljerka Ostojić
Anteo Bradarić
Kornelija Miše
Zdenko Ostojić
Jasna Lovrić
Pavao Petrović
Ante Ujević
Marko Erceg
Stipan Janković
Jadranka Tocilj
Abstract
The present study examines long-term effects of occupational exposure to formaldehyde fumes on lung function. Forced
spirometry and diffusing lung capacity were measured in 16 health-service professionals (8 medical doctors and 8
laboratory technicians) working at the pathoanatomic laboratory for at least 4 years with daily exposure 8+1 hours. Control
group employed 16 males, which were matched by age and stature to members of the exposed group. Only non-smokers
were included in the study. Spirometric parameters in study participants exposed to formaldehyde fumes compared to
control group were not significantly different indicating absence of restrictive and/or obstructive deterioration of lung
function in exposed group. The only parameter differing in two groups was blood volume of pulmonary capillaries (Vc’)
which was significantly larger in a group exposed to formaldehyde fumes. The possibility that the hyperemic lung reaction
is the consequence of the exposure to formaldehyde fumes should be further explored.
Keywords
formaldehyde; pulmonary function; diffusing capacity; occupational health hazards
Hrčak ID:
27588
URI
Publication date:
12.5.2006.
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