Chronic Beryllium Disease
What is 'beryllium'?
Beryllium is a metal or it is used in very specific industries. In the past it's been used most commonly in nuclear related industries, in the aerospace industry and in belated high technology fields. It now tends to be used in areas outside of those industries. Individuals who were previously being identified with beryllium related lung diseases are most exclusively from those types of industries.
What is chronic beryllium disease CBD?
Chronic beryllium disease is a disease in which the body basically forms an immune reaction related to the beryllium that enters the lung. This can lead to the development of inflammation and fibrosis within the lung.
Who is at risk for CBD?
People who are at risk for Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD) are people who work around the substance for extended periods of time, in a form in which it is airborne and has the potential to be inhaled. People who work with solid beryllium, that is beryllium that is already with a piece of machinery or piece of equipment where is already impregnated into the device, are not at risk for beryllium related disease.
I just found out we live near a plant that converts beryllium is my family in danger?
It's very unlikely that your family would be in danger if you live near a plant that uses beryllium in its manufacturing process. All manufacturing processes involving potentially toxic materials in this country are very closely regulated by the government. If you have any additional questions or concerns I would rather contact the local or state regulatory agency. We can contact the manufacturer of the plant itself and discuss your concerns with them. Many of these companies have community relation offices that would be happy to answer many of your questions about the substances that they use.
I work with beryllium, what are my chances of developing chronic beryllium disease?
Your chances of developing chronic Beryllium disease are extremely low, assuming that you use appropriate protective techniques. That includes gowning, and it includes an appropriate respirator for working with Beryllium. I would certainly not be concerned about developing conditions related to it, assuming you're taking the appropriate precautions and that you're working in a well ventilated space.
My dental bridge has beryllium; will I get chronic beryllium disease?
Beryllium found within dental bridges and other dental devices has not been shown to cause beryllium-related disease, because the beryllium is already impregnated within the device. It's not free floating or airborne and therefore not in a form in which it can be inhaled into your lungs.
What are the common symptoms of chronic beryllium disease?
Like many of the conditions or diseases that infect the lungs, the symptoms are going to be including such things as cough, shortness of breath, the potential for fever, and the potential for chest pains. But, as with any condition or any occupational lung disease, it has to be in the setting of an appropriate historical setting, meaning somebody that works with beryllium, somebody that's been exposed to it. Obviously, your risk for having a beryllium-related lung disease is non-existent, unless there's an appropriate history of exposure.
How does chronic beryllium disease typically affect the body?
Chronic beryllium disease affects the body by causing the formation of very small scars within the lungs, called granulomas. Over time, if enough of these develop, it can lead to actual structural fibrotic deterioration of the lung, where the lungs basically become scarred down, fibrotic and don't work appropriately.
