Objective To apply high-resolution x-ray computed tomography (HRCT) to early emphysema detection in dust exposed workers with suspected pneumoconiosis, and to provide evidence for occupational health surveillance and intervention.
Methods A total of 312 workers with dust exposure and meeting the criteria of suspected pneumoconiosis were recruited, among which 136 workers were exposed to welding dust, 119 to other pneumoconiosis-related dust (OPRD), and 57 to particles not otherwise regulated. All workers received regular medical chest examination, high-KV chest radiography, HRCT and pulmonary function examination.
Results No emphysema was identified by high-KV radiography examination. Fifty-one cases of early emphysema were detected by HRCT, including 29 welders, 18 workers exposed to OPRD, and 4 workers exposed to particles not otherwise regulated. The corresponding detection rates were 21.3%, 15.1% and 7.0% respectively (χ2=6.3, P < 0.05). The longer length of service was' the higher detection rate presented (χ2=14.59, P < 0.05). The detection rate of early emphysema in the group older than 50 years was higher than that in the group younger than 50 years.
Conclusion Detection rates of early emphysema in suspected pneumoconiosis workers exposed to dust are associated with age, length of dust exposure, and dust type. More emphysema cases are found in welders having suspected pneumoconiosis. HRCT is suggested to perform in higher priority to suspected pneumoconiosis workers especially those older than 50 years old.
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