Predictive Value of CC16 For Respiratory Prognosis in Occupational Gas Exposure

Abstract

Aim: Even after the cessation of exposure to chemicals, occupational respiratory disease’s symptoms may not improve. Therefore, researches for predictive biomarkers are necessary. CC16 is a respiratory epithelial permeability marker. We aimed to evaluate predictive value of CC16 level for occupational exposure related respiratory diseases. Methods: Study was conducted in an armed vehicle manufacturing plant. 43 volunteer’s (31-60 age, male) respiratory parameters were followed up for two years. CC16, TNFα, hippuric acid and phenol levels determined. By using STAT/Statistic program causative relations were examined by linear regression analysis. Difference between 2016 and 2018 parameters analysed by Wilcoxon signed rank test. Project was approved by Institutional Clinical Researches Ethics Committee of Ankara University. Results: Volunteers divided into three groups; low, normal and high CC16 level. Within the follow up period while only FEV1 and MEF25-75 (p=0,0001) values were significantlydecreased in low and normal CC16 level groups, in high CC16 level group PEF (p=0,019) values decreased too. Our results didn't reveal any causative relation between CC16 levels and chemical exposure. Conclusions: Main outcome of this study indicates that significant respiratory function changes should be expected in chemical exposed workers. Also, high CC16 levels might predict worsening of respiratory functions.