Immunological biomarkers in salt miners exposed to salt dust, diesel exhaust and nitrogen oxides

Abstract

Significant differences between non-smokers and active smokers were found for most of the leukocyte types (e.g. granulocytes P = 0.000, lymphocytes P = 0.002, T-cells P = 0.033) and for some soluble parameters (ICAM P = 0.000, IgM P = 0.007, IgE P = 0.035). Increasing numbers of total lymphocytes, T-cells and HLA-DR positive T-cells in relation to exposure were found by linear regression analysis (e.g. for inhalable dust:total lymphocytes P = 0.011, T-cells P = 0.061, HLA-DR positive T-cells P = 0.007). CONCLUSION. Comparison of immunological markers in non-smokers and active smokers confirms leukocytosis and inflammation following tobacco consumption. The combined exposure of salt dust, diesel exhaust and NOx seems to influence the immune system. Together, the results suggest that the analysis of leukocytes and their subsets can complete other investigations (lung function, questionnaire) to monitor exposure-response relationships in occupational studies investigating the effect of inhaled substances. Longitudinal studies will be necessary to determine the predictive value of the immunological changes.

The Diesel Exhaust in Miners Study: IV. Estimating Historical Exposures to Diesel Exhaust in Underground Non-metal Mining Facilities

“…There are few previously published data with which to compare the results of our study. However, recent studies have reported personal EC measurement levels between 20 and >500 μg m −3 (Ramachandran and Watts, 2003; Backe et al , 2004; Birch and Noll, 2004; Adelroth et al , 2006; Burgess et al , 2007; Dahmann et al , 2007; Noll et al , 2007). The wide range among these studies is likely due to different types and amounts of diesel equipment, airflow rates, and work practices, just as these differences influenced exposure levels in our facilities.…”

The importance of T-lymphocyte subsets on overall survival of colorectal and gastric cancer patients

“…Other factors such as harmful habits (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption) can also influence the changes of parameters of cellular immunity (18,19). In the case of advanced cancer, these changes in parameters are basically affected by disease.…”

Exposure, lung function decline and systemic inflammatory response in asphalt workers

“…Cross-sectional studies have shown a greater risk for respiratory symptoms among asphalt workers than for road maintenance workers (8). Adverse respiratory effects and systemic inflammatory responses in workers exposed to dusts and fumes have recently been reported for several different occupations, for example, welders (9), firefighters (10,11) salt miners (12), and tunnel workers (13)(14)(15).…”