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CSEM
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How to Use This Course
Initial Check
Beryllium
Safety Standards
Who is at Risk
Susceptible Persons
Pathogenic Changes
Clinical Assessment
Laboratory Evaluation
Treatment
More Information
Posttest
Literature Cited
Patient Education
 
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Exposure Pathways
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Managing Incidents
Medical Guidelines
Minimal Risk Levels
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Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Case Studies in Environmental Medicine (CSEM) 

Beryllium Toxicity
Cover Page

Course: WB 1095
CE Original Date: May 23, 2008
CE Expiration Date: May 23, 2011


Key Concepts

  • Beryllium produces health effects ranging from sensitization without evidence of disease to clinically apparent pulmonary disease.
  • Chronic beryllium disease may be misdiagnosed as sarcoidosis.
  • Immunologic tests can detect beryllium sensitization and help clinicians differentiate between chronic beryllium disease and other interstitial lung diseases.

About This and Other Case Studies in Environmental Medicine

This educational case study document is one in a series of self-instructional publications designed to increase the primary care provider’s knowledge of hazardous substances in the environment and to promote the adoption of medical practices that aid in the evaluation and care of potentially exposed patients. The complete series of Case Studies in Environmental Medicine is located on the ATSDR Web site at www.atsdr.cdc.gov/csem/. In addition, the downloadable PDF version of this educational series and other environmental medicine materials provides content in an electronic, printable format, especially for those who may lack adequate Internet service.


How to Apply for and Receive Continuing Education Credit

See Internet address www2.cdc.gov/atsdrce/ for more information about continuing medical education credits, continuing nursing education credits, and other continuing education units.


Acknowledgements

We gratefully acknowledge the work that the medical writers, editors, and reviewers have provided to produce this educational resource. Listed below are those who have contributed to development of this version of the Case Study in Environmental Medicine.

ATSDR Authors: Kim Gehle, MD, MPH

CDC/ATSDR Planners: Valerie J. Curry, MS; John Doyle, MPA; Bruce J. Fowler, Ph.D.; Kimberly Gehle, MD; Sharon L. Hall, Ph.D.; Michael Hatcher, DrPH; Kimberly Jenkins, BA; Ronald T. Jolly; Delene Roberts, MSA; Oscar Tarrago, MD, MPH, CHES; Brian Tencza, MS; Pamela Tucker, MD
CDC/ATSDR Commenters:  Dan Middleton, MD,

Contributors: Robert Johnson MD

Peer Reviewers: Lisa A. Maier, MD, FCCP, MSPH, ; Lisa Barker, Peggy Mroz


Disclaimer

The state of knowledge regarding the treatment of patients potentially exposed to hazardous substances in the environment is constantly evolving and is often uncertain. In this educational monograph, ATSDR has made diligent effort to ensure the accuracy and currency of the information presented, but makes no claim that the document comprehensively addresses all possible situations related to this substance. This monograph is intended as an educational resource for physicians and other health professionals in assessing the condition and managing the treatment of patients potentially exposed to hazardous substances. It is not, however, a substitute for the professional judgment of a health care provider. The document must be interpreted in light of specific information regarding the patient and in conjunction with other sources of authority.

Use of trade names and commercial sources is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.


Department of Health and Human Services

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology and Environmental Medicine
Environmental Medicine and Educational Services Branch


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Revised 2008-05-23