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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 1999; 20(6): 569-580
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1009476
Copyright © 1999 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Occupational Upper Airway Disorders

Ron Balkissoon* , Dennis J. Shusterman†
  • *National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, Colorado, and
  • †University of California, San Francisco, California
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The upper respiratory tract, extending from the nares to the larynx, performs several essential physiological functions, including olfaction, phonation, air conditioning, filtering, and microbial defense. In the occupational setting, workers are exposed to a wide variety of chemical and biological agents that can have allergic or irritant effects, or both, on the upper airway. This article presents our current understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical assessment, and management of occupationally related upper airway disorders.

Key Words:

Rhinitis - vocal cord dysfunction - work-related - occupational - allergic - irritants

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