pulmonary disorders
Byssinosis
Etiology of Byssinosis
Byssinosis is an asthma-like syndrome that occurs in textile workers who come into contact with unprocessed, raw cotton, flax, or hemp. Specific textile mill jobs are associated with a higher risk of byssinosis. Evidence suggests that inhalation of bacterial endotoxin in the cotton dust leads to bronchoconstriction, chronic bronchitis, and a gradual decrease in pulmonary function, particularly in genetically susceptible people. 