A clinical and immunological study on 92 workers occupationally exposed to anhydrides

This study aimed at investigating sensitizing and hazardous effects of a new acid anhydride, pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA), in addition to those of phthalic anhydride, maleic anhydride and trimellitic anhydride, in a group of 92 exposed workers in two German chemical plants. Of the 92 workers, 56 reported work-related complaints with a predominance of phlegm and dyspnoea in those exposed to anhydride dust for less than 1 year. Haemorrhagic...