Berylliosis is a lung disease caused by exposure to beryllium, a metal used in various industrial processes such as aerospace, nuclear weapons, electronics, and ceramics manufacturing.
Inhalation of beryllium dust or fumes can cause berylliosis, which is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue.
Beryllium particles can become trapped in the lung tissue and cause a delayed immune response, resulting in chronic inflammation and damage.
Contributed by Philip Kane, MD Wiki Commons
Symptoms of berylliosis may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and weight loss.
Berylliosis can cause various lung problems, such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis.
The severity of berylliosis depends on the amount and duration of exposure to beryllium, as well as individual susceptibility to the disease.
Diagnosis of berylliosis may involve a medical history, physical examination, lung function tests, chest X-ray, CT scan, and beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT).
Treatment of berylliosis includes removing the patient from exposure to beryllium and the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Some patients with severe berylliosis may require oxygen therapy or lung transplantation.
Preventive measures, such as using protective equipment and ensuring proper ventilation, can help reduce the risk of beryllium exposure in the workplace.
