Occupational Asthma or Work-exacerbated asthma?

Abstract

Currently there is an increase in the prevalence of asthma and it seems that occupational exposure is one of the factors contributing to this increase. "Occupational asthma" refers to new onset asthma induced by exposure to a substance in the workplace, whereas "workaggravated asthma" refers to pre-existing asthma that is then exacerbated in the workplace. A correct diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and establishing a temporal relationship between symptoms and work. An incorrect diagnosis can lead to important socioeconomic consequences for the worker. In Spain, Royal Order 1299/2006 on 10 November (amended on May 4, 2018) establishes the criteria for its classification and official recognition. In the context of an allergic process, an occupational etiology should be considered and occupational physicians in an occupational healht service can serve as consultants to guide and manage these cases. In this case report we established an association between an occupational exposure and asthma in a worker which led to a series of steps resulting in its acceptance as an occupational disease.