Systemic iron overload associated with Welder's siderosis

Am J Med Sci. 2009 Jan;337(1):57-9. doi: 10.1097/01.MAJ.0000308933.80112.49.

Abstract

Welding involves exposure to fumes, gases, radiation, electricity, noise, and heat. Herein, we describe 2 welders presenting with lung infiltrates and elevated liver enzyme levels. Both of these patients had pulmonary siderosis ("welder's lung") on lung biopsy along with evidence of systemic iron overload. Evaluation for genetic hemochromatosis and other known causes of iron overload was unrevealing. Welding with chronic inhalation of iron particles maybe an under-recognized source of systemic iron overload.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Iron Overload / etiology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Siderosis / complications*
  • Siderosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Welding*