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Beryllium-Induced Lung Disease

Exposure to beryllium--a silver-gray metal found in oil, coal and volcanic dust, among other things--can lead to an inflammation of the lungs called berylliosis. Exposure is generally from the inhalation of fumes or dust containing beryllium. The side effects of berylliosis include labored breathing, coughing, night sweats and fatigue, and treatments may involve steroids and oxygen.

  1. Identification

    • Beryllium is a metal formerly used in the manufacturing of certain electronics, chemicals and fluorescent light bulbs. It is still used today in the production of aerospace products and in casting beryllium-aluminum products.

    Risks

    • Beryllium-based lung disease tends to occur only in patients with allergies to beryllium. Even limited exposure to beryllium and its dust can result in berylliosis in patients with this allergy, according to the Merck Online Medical Library.

    Considerations

    • When beryllium exposure triggers an allergic reaction, the lungs form abnormal tissue, causing the lymph nodes to become inflamed. While symptoms may not present themselves for 10 to 20 years following exposure, they tend to be consistent and gradual. Among them is weight loss, breathing problems and severe fatigue.

    Testing

    • A patient is diagnosed with berylliosis following the confirmation of beryllium exposure and several diagnostic procedures. These include X-rays, CT (computerized tomography) scans and specific allergy tests. The BeLPT, or beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test, determines the patient's tolerance to beryllium and can detect allergies. Patients with more advanced cases may undergo further testing to determine the severity of their disease.

    Diagnosis

    • A bronchoscope is often used to make a final diagnosis. This tube is used to extract tissue and cell samples from the lung to confirm the patient's allergy to beryllium.

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