All about berylliosis (beryllium disease)  chronic beryllium disease acute beryllium disease symptoms of berylliosis (beryllium disease) diagnosis of berylliosis treatment for berylliosis (beryllium disease) |
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How is berylliosis (beryllium disease) diagnosed?
The diagnosis is based on the person's history of exposure to beryllium, the symptoms, and characteristic changes on a chest x-ray. Berylliosis is initially suspected if a patient with symptoms of the disease has a history of beryllium exposure. A chest x ray shows characteristic changes in the lungs. However, since these changes can resemble those caused by other lung diseases, further testing may be necessary.
The beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT), a blood test that can detect beryllium sensitivity (i.e. an allergic reaction to beryllium), is used to screen individuals at risk of developing berylliosis. When screening results reveal a high level of sensitivity, BeLPT is performed on cells washed from the lungs. This test is now considered the most definitive diagnostic test for berylliosis. |
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More information on berylliosis (beryllium disease)
What is berylliosis (beryllium disease)? - Berylliosis (or beryllium disease) is caused by the inhalation of beryllium particles, dust or fumes. Ventilators can help patients with acute berylliosis breathe.
What is chronic beryllium disease? - Chronic beryllium disease (CBD) is characterized by the inflammation of the lungs caused by exposure to Beryllium fumes or dust.
What is acute beryllium disease? - Acute beryllium disease presents as an acute, toxic, exudative pneumonitis. Acute beryllium disease usually has a quick onset and resembles pneumonia or bronchitis.
What're the symptoms of berylliosis (beryllium disease)? - Symptoms of beryllium disease may include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, weight loss and/or loss of appetite, fevers and night sweats.
How is berylliosis (beryllium disease) diagnosed? - The diagnosis of berylliosis (beryllium disease) is based on the person's history of exposure to beryllium, the symptoms, and characteristic changes on a chest x-ray.
What's the treatment for berylliosis (beryllium disease)? - Ventilators can help patients with acute berylliosis breathe. Prompt corticosteroid therapy is required to lessen lung inflammation. |
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