[Findings in a high-risk group following asbestos exposure. Benefit of ENT examinations in patients with long-term exposure to asbestos].

OBJECTIVE

Laryngeal diseases caused by exposure to asbestos are listed in the current German list of occupational diseases under number 4104. Parallel to a multicenter study to evaluate whether a CT scan should be included in the examinations for occupational diseases according to the German surveillance guidelines, an additional ENT examination was evaluated.

METHODS

One hundred workers with a mean exposure time to asbestos of 20.9 years were given a complete ENT examination in 4 consecutive years (1993-1996). Radiological signs for asbestosis were observed in 21 cases and 58 participants had pleural affections caused by asbestos. Significant nicotine abuse was reported by 15 persons: 61 participants were ex-smokers and 24 had never smoked. Regular alcohol consumption was reported by 90% (11% more than 80 g/day).

RESULTS

As documented in the literature, we found a high prevalence of laryngitis, especially in smoking patients. One patient had early laryngeal cancer (T1).

CONCLUSIONS

The integration of an ENT examination into the German surveillance guidelines for occupational diseases should be discussed for patients with a high exposure to asbestos.