Polyvinyl-Chloride-Induced Lung Disease

Abstract

The first histologically and clinically documented case of pneumoconiosis caused by prolonged polyvinyl chloride (PVC) inhalation was described in 1970. A series of human epidemiological as well as some experimental studies confirmed the existence of PVC pneumoconiosis. Pyrolytic products of PVC, of vinyl chloride and of plasticisers and stabilisers may irritate the respiratory organs, causing fibrosis, asthma, bronchitis and even cancer of the lung. Workers employed in PVC plants are at high risk with respect to PVC-induced lung disease.