Yacht-maker's lung: A case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis in yacht manufacturing. WMJ 2006 Oct;105(7):47-50
Date
12/14/2006Pubmed ID
17163087Scopus ID
2-s2.0-33750825075 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 13 CitationsAbstract
We present a case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis in a 46-year-old female working at a yacht manufacturing company. She reported a 2-month history of progressive dyspnea, chest tightness, and daytime, nocturnal, and exertional cough in temporal relationship to work where she was exposed to chemicals involved in the manufacture of yachts. Treatment with systemic antibiotic therapy, inhaled bronchodilators, and inhaled corticosteroids provided minimal relief of symptoms. Spirometry revealed a restrictive defect and a chest x-ray demonstrated a diffuse interstitial pattern. She improved on oral corticosteroids and with avoidance of her work environment had resolution of her symptoms and normalization of her spirometry. Among the various chemicals the patient was exposed to, the most likely causative agents for her symptoms were dimethyl phthalate and styrene. Although the specific chemical or antigen could not be determined, the history and objective findings are consistent with occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This represents a case of hypersensitivity pneumonitis related to the manufacture of yachts.
Author List
Volkman KK, Merrick JG, Zacharisen MCMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
Alveolitis, Extrinsic AllergicDiagnosis, Differential
Female
Humans
Middle Aged
Phthalic Acids
Respiratory Function Tests
Ships
Styrene