An occupational disease that is caused by the inhalation of dust or fumes containing beryllium, a metallic element which is used in high-technology industries, such as nuclear energy, electronics, and aerospace. Short exposure to high concentrations of beryllium may lead to an episode of severe pneumonitis. Exposure over a number of years to smaller concentrations may lead to permanent damage to lungs and liver. Treatment with corticosteroid drugs can reduce damage to the lungs. In most cases, the introduction of safe working practices prevents exposure to dangerous levels of berylliosis.
A disease of the lungs caused by the inhalation of particles of beryllium oxide.
n. poisoning by beryllium or its compounds, either by inhalation or by skin contamination. Inhalation of fumes from molten beryllium causes an acute *alveolitis and is usually fatal. Subacute and chronic forms can result from extremely low levels of exposure to the powder and can produce granulomata in the skin or lungs very similar to those seen in *sarcoidosis. In the lungs, these lead to fibrosis, which can, however, be prevented by prompt use of oral corticosteroids. Although the incidence of berylliosis has been greatly reduced since the use of beryllium compounds in the manufacture of fluorescent light tubes was discontinued in Britain in 1948, new cases are still occurring.
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