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Beryllium disease is an inflammation of the lungs caused by inhaling dust or fumes containing beryllium. The toxic effects of beryllium most commonly occur due to occupational exposure. Beryllium assays were also conducted on the lungs of 143 industrial employees and 25 nonindustrial workers. Minimal quantities of beryllium were found in three cases only. The levels in these three were many times lower than the least levels found in association with chronic berylliosis. There are two forms of beryllium-induced lung disease: acute and chronic. Acute berylliosis has a sudden, rapid onset. It is characterized by severe inflammation of the lungs (pneumonitis), coughing, increasing breathlessness (dyspnea), and other associated symptoms and findings. Chronic form of the disease develops more slowly. Chronic berylliosis is an allergic reaction to long-term exposure to even low levels of beryllium dust or fumes. A systemic disease that causes formation of abnormal lung tissue and enlargement of the lymph nodes, chronic berylliosis also may affect other parts of the body. Chronic berylliosis is characterized by the abnormal formation of inflammatory masses or nodules (granulomas) within certain tissues. Organs and widespread scarring and thickening of deep lung tissues (interstitial pulmonary fibrosis). In individuals with chronic berylliosis. It is associated symptoms and findings often include dry coughing, fatigue, weight loss, chest pain, and increasing shortness of breath. This condition is caused by beryllium air pollution that inflames the lungs making them rigid; it can affect the eyes and skin as well. People who have acute berylliosis are usually very ill. The most important step in the management of berylliosis is to avoid further exposure to beryllium. For acute berylliosis, you may be given corticosteroid medication, usually prednisone. This drug helps to reduce lung inflammation. For chronic berylliosis, corticosteroids may be used if you develop symptoms of lung disease. Cleansing the lungs of beryllium is a slow process, so long-term therapy may be required. Chelation therapy is currently under investigation as a treatment for the disease. Avoiding or limiting exposure to beryllium is the best way to prevent berylliosis. Wear a respirator when doing work that could result in high beryllium exposure. Do not wear street clothing when working with beryllium. After working with beryllium, shower and wash your hair before changing back into street clothing.
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