Inhalation Fever
É. Galambos, A. Mándi, M. Devescovi Á. Péntek1
National Institute of Occupational Health, Budapest
1Videoton Holding, Occupational Health Service, Székesfehérvár
CEJOEM 1997, Vol.3. No.4.:332
Transient febrile reactions were detected in Teflon® workers during
the work shift. This polymer fume fever, known as a form of inhalation
fever, might be caused by inhalation of pyrolysis products of Teflon, heated
above 300 ·C.
The possible role of smoking cigarettes contaminated
with the polymer cannot be excluded as the temperature in the burning zone
of a cigarette exceeds 800 ·C, where more toxic pyrolitic products
are formed.
The aetiology, clinical features, differential diagnostic
aspects and preventive measures of inhalation fever are discussed. It is
reversible in nature even without clinical therapy and there is no need
to change the workplace. The incidence of the disease can be prevented
by introducing specific actions improving hygienic conditions.
| Vol.3. No.4. | Back
|