Is a low serum concentration of alpha 1-antitrypsin associated with an increased susceptibility for byssinosis in cotton mill workers? Considerations regarding analytical quality requirements and economical consequences.

Abstract excerpt

We have previously demonstrated an association between development of the cotton lung disease byssinosis and endotoxin concentrations in the work environment. Endotoxin has been shown to exert its effects through granulocyte activation and hence release of elastase and other proteases at the bronchoalveolar surface. alpha 1-Antitrypsin is a protease inhibitor, and hence, alpha 1-Antitrypsin concentrations in the...

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