OPAM Workshop: Basic Course in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Part III-306850

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Carl Wurz delivered an extensive talk on occupational pulmonology, addressing various respiratory diseases linked to occupational exposures. He emphasized the complexity of the field, noting that pulmonology itself includes specialized sub-fellowships. Dr. Wurz tackled adult-onset asthma, often work-related and underreported, and discussed the challenge of distinguishing occupational asthma from non-occupational cases. He further elaborated on spirometry, a key diagnostic tool, emphasizing the importance of understanding both volume-time and flow-volume loop graphs for detecting abnormalities.<br /><br />The talk covered widespread occupational diseases such as silicosis, black lung, and asbestosis, pointing out their diagnostic criteria and associated radiographic findings. Dr. Wurz also addressed metal fume fever and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, linking them to specific workplace exposures and highlighting the significance of spirometry in monitoring worker health.<br /><br />Further discussions included diagnostic testing intricacies, such as B-reader qualifications for x-ray assessments, and delved into complex conditions like bronchiolitis obliterans. The session underscored the importance of accurate diagnosis and the role of effective workplace regulations in preventing occupational lung diseases. Attendees were encouraged to take niosh-certified spirometry courses to enhance their diagnostic capabilities.

Keywords

occupational pulmonology

respiratory diseases

adult-onset asthma

spirometry

silicosis

asbestosis

hypersensitivity pneumonitis

bronchiolitis obliterans

workplace regulations