Abstract

The mechanism of asbestos and silica pneumotoxicity is poorly understood. A fuller understanding of these mechanisms would contribute to the prevention of health problems in workers with high dust exposures.

The role of leucocytes in dust defense mechanisms was examined in animals, and results extrapolated to humans.

The progression of disease in animals resembled that observed in humans, and involved the attack of healthy lung cells by toxins produced by dust defense mechanisms. The various stages in the evolution of disease - inflammation, increased leucocyte count, toxin production - were examined.

Further experimentation using this system will ultimately result in the development of preventive and therapeutic practices for other types of occupational lung disease.