Abstract
The aim of this cohort study was the evaluation of specific IgG antibodies as bio-markers of exposure to actinomycetes and molds compared with health effects of the exposed workers. A total of 123 compost workers from 42 composting plants and 48 control subjects were examined in 1996/1997 and 2001. The compost workers suffered more frequently from complaints of the conjunctivae and the upper airways compared to the control subjects. The forced vital capacity of the compost workers decreased significantly during the follow-up. Three suspected cases of occupational diseases were observed. Compared with control subjects, levels of specific IgG antibodies of the compost workers were significantly higher at both times of examination; for the actinomycetes, a significant decrease was observed in the compost workers within the 5 years of follow-up. A significant association of the course of specific IgG antibodies with the health complaints or the decrease of forced vital capacity was not observed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
