Our study aimed the early detection of respiratory injuries afflicted with occupational exposure to chromium , cadmium, nickel and their compounds , with a known high carcinogenic risk . 23 platers ( average of exposure 15.57 ± 5.05 years ) and matched controls have been investigated by clinical examination ( including otolaryngology exam ) completed by sputum cytology and an individual questionnaire .

Heavy metals concentration , as well as the microclimate factors , were measured in working area and revealed the values near to the admitted limits . Sputum investigations found the type I cytology in 37.8% of workers vs. 82.6% of controls , type II cytology in 43.5% vs. 17.4%, respectively . Two workers had sputum cytology of III type , with nucleolar alterations and suspected tumor cells . At 60.8% of people in exposed group were identified ferruginous bodies , in all types of sputum cytology , comparatively with only one case in control group . 74% of platers had chronic upper respiratory diseases vs. 26.1% of controls ; 56.5% had pulmonary emphysema vs. 0% in control group . Plating industry is responsible for chronic respiratory diseases , with possible malignancy risk , even the concentrations of heavy metals in the air are in admitted limits .

Precancerous injuries can be seen by sputum cytology a simple, noninvasive , and not expansive method , requiring a carefully monitoring of workers . The presence , in a high proportion , of ferruginous bodies , unspecific to heavy metals exposure , entails revaluation of the exposure in working place.