Date of Award
January 2013
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Department
School of Public Health
First Advisor
Meredith H. Stowe
Abstract
Background:
Diisocyanates are sensitizing agents that are used in many industries in the production of polyurethane foams, coatings and other products. Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) exposure can occur through dermal and inhalation routes resulting in sensitization and leading to isocyanate asthma. MDI-specific IgG (MDI-IgG) bio-monitoring has been proposed to be used as a predictor of exposure.
Methods:
A prospective longitudinal study was used to assess annual MDI- IgG serum markers in 223 workers in a fabric-coating company. Kaplan Meir Survival Analysis determined whether there was a difference in seroconversion based on exposure level. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to see if covariates such as total IgE level, cough, rash, allergies, and smoking contributed to time to change. Data from 2012 and 2013 were used to compare MDI-IgG level after the implementation of new safety measures.
Results:
MDI- IgG seroconversion from negative to positive was statistically significant for a difference in the survival curves (p= 0.0076) with respect to job classification. No statistical difference was found among workers for time to seroconversion from MDI-specific IgG positive to negative (p= 0.9232). A non-parametric sign test was used to evaluate the paired serology results for individuals between 2012 and 2013, indicating a significant decrease in MDI-specific IgG levels (p=0.0001).
Discussion:
There is a significant correlation between job classification and time to positive seroconversion. Biomonitoring may track and trend changes that reflect worker exposures. Data suggest that safety interventions could play an important role in preventing MDI asthma and ensure worker safety.
Recommended Citation
Teng, Ann Y., "Mdi-Specific Igg Exposure Biomarker And Role Of Intervention" (2013). Public Health Theses. 1287.
https://elischolar.library.yale.edu/ysphtdl/1287
Comments
This is an Open Access Thesis.