Bronchoprovocation tests in the diagnosis of isocyanate-induced asthma.

Abstract

Over the past 25 years, investigators have continued to improve on the approach to providing nonirritant exposures for the accurate diagnosis of isocyanate-induced asthma. Although the technology used in testing has become more sophisticated and may be fairly considered the domain of the bioengineer, the chemist, and the industrial hygienist, the requirements of the physician have remained unchanged. The physician must observe the level of exposure closely and monitor the worker's symptoms and lung function. Direct physician involvement in the testing procedure remains critical to the worker's safety and for the accurate diagnosis of isocyanate-induced asthma.