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A case of severe chronic inflammation of eye and upper respiratory tract mucous membranes in a 70 year old male due to occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(+6)) was described. The patient worked in a factory where he plated iron with chromium between 1934 and 1982. This work was performed in vessels containing up to 3,000 liters of Cr(+6) solution at 40 degrees-C and required continuous supervision. As a result, the patient kept his face over the vessels most of the time and was heavily exposed to Cr(+6) vapors. Clinical examination revealed near blindness due to adhesion between the inner eyelids with the corneas of both eyes. A large perforation of the nasal septum and narrowing of both nostrils were seen. Examinations of the oral lesions revealed chronic, microscopic fibrous inflammation with no evidence of malignancy. The patient received regular medical treatment for the nasal and oral conditions. The authors note that the patient has received disability compensation and is being regularly examined due to the risk of malignancy.
Journal of Laryngology and Otology, 108(7):591-592, 1994. (6 references)
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