Abstract

Abstract

Byssinosis is a pulmonary disorder seen in workers exposed to cotton, flax and hemp dusts.

Acute and chronic forms of the disease are present. Periodicity of the symptoms initially helps to differentiate from chronic obstructive lung disease. The pathophysiological mechanisms remain incompletely resolved. Recent studies demonstrated prevalence rates of 10% in high risk workers and 4% among all workers. The prevalence in Turkey is between 0 and 22%.