Case report of asthma associated with 3D printing

Abstract

This case indicates that workers may develop respiratory problems, including asthma when using 3D printers. Further investigation of the specific airborne emissions and health problems from 3D printing is warranted.

3D-Printed Lab-on-a-Chip Diagnostic Systems-Developing a Safe-by-Design Manufacturing Approach

“…Substitution of the ABS filaments to PLA filaments, reduction of the number of printers to five and use of an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air filter and organic cartridge improved his symptoms although still experiencing slight shortness of breath and chest tightness at work. His symptoms decreased over time after the exposure reduction modifications and eventually resolved [103].…”

“…House et al [103] reported a case study of a patient that developed asthma upon starting to work with multiple FFF 3D printers. Before being involved in 3D printing operations, the patient displayed no health issues, but had a history of asthma symptoms in childhood.…”

“…Air purifiers have been successfully implemented to diminish ultrafine particle exposure from 3D printers [94,103]. If additional exposure reducing measures are required, installation of air filtration systems can be useful.…”

3D Printed Lab-on-a-Chip Diagnostic Systems - Developing a Safe-by-Design Manufacturing Approach

“…Indisposition and odor nuisance were reported to be increased for ABS exposure. The study took place in an exposure chamber of 32 m 3 volume, used for occupational and environmental exposure assessment[102].House et al[103] reported a case study of a patient that developed asthma upon starting to work with multiple FFF 3D printers. Before being involved in 3D printing operations, the patient displayed no health issues, but had a history of asthma symptoms in childhood.…”

“…If installation of a full enclosure is absolutely not applicable, employment of a partial enclosure may provide a minimum level of protection[69] [74]. Individuals diagnosed with asthma or other respiratory health issues, as well as individuals with any history of respiratory issues should use these instruments with increased caution, as they may be more susceptible to display adverse health symptoms in response to the emissions[103].3.4.4. Personal Protective Equipment Respiratory protective equipment should be employed as a last priority measure, if emission and exposure control are absolutely not applicable.…”