Occupational Bronchiolitis: An Update

Occupational bronchiolitis is characterized by inflammation of the small airways following a range of inhalation exposures. Workers in industries producing or using flavorings ontaining diacetyl or 2,3-pentanedione are at risk. Cases of constrictive bronchiolitis also have been associated with military deployments, but the causative exposure(s) have not been identified. Multiple reports in recent years have drawn attention to previously unrecognized risk factors for occupational bronchiolitis in several settings, such as fiberglass-reinforced plastic boatbuilding. Both current and past occupational exposures should be considered in patients undergoing evaluation for unexplained dyspnea. Diagnostic testing should include a thorough assessment of the small airways.