Byssinosis

[Tracie Lynn]

Byssinosis is a form of reactive airways disease characterized by bronchoconstriction that occurs in cotton, flax, and hemp workers. The etiologic agent is bacterial endotoxin in cotton dust. Symptoms are chest tightness and dyspnea that worsen on the first day of the work week and subside as the week progresses. Diagnosis is based on history and pulmonary function test findings. Treatment includes avoidance of exposure and use of asthma drugs.
(See also Overview of Environmental Pulmonary Disease.)

[Little_Girl]

A lung disease caused by prolonged inhalation of textile fiber dust.