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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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. There are a number of occupations more afflicted with CBD. Chronic beryllium disease develops after months or
years of exposure to beryllium. The period between first exposure and appearance of the disease is 10 to 15 years. The disease may develop while the individual is still exposed to beryllium or it may occur up to 25 years after the last exposure.
Chronic beryllium disease is characterised by sarcoid-like, non-caseating peribronchial and perivascular granulomas. It is an example of a type IV hypersensitivity reaction. Similar granulomas may be found in the liver, kidney, skin and regional lymph nodes. Some people who are diagnosed with CBD do not develop clinical symptoms at all. In others, the disease can lead to clinical symptoms that include scarring and damage of lung tissue, causing shortness of breath, wheezing and/or coughing. Extreme cases of CBD can cause disability or death. The course of the disease can range from a few years to decades. Chronic beryllium disease primarily affects the lungs. But it may also affect other organs because the blood transports beryllium throughout the body. |
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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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