[Alpha 1-antitrypsin level and the state of the respiratory tract in arc welders]

Abstract

A group of 73 arc welders underwent medical and radiological examinations. In addition, they had serum alpha-1-antitrypsine level determined. Alpha-1-antitrypsine level was found to be normal in 7 (10%) welders displaying symptoms of a chronic nonspecific broncho--pulmonary disease and in 1 subject afflicted by silicosis (all subjects being under 50). This level was within the limits found in welders exhibiting no symptoms of respiratory tract diseases, i.e. 0.84--1.34 mg/ml, according to Eriksson's method.