Single and Combined Exposure to Zinc- and Copper-Containing Welding Fumes Lead to Asymptomatic Systemic Inflammation

Authors:
  • RBRalf Baumann
    Ralf Baumann
  • BGBenjamin Gerhards
    Benjamin Gerhards
  • MGMonika Gube
    Monika Gube
  • VKVeronika Kossack
    Veronika Kossack
  • TKThomas Kraus
    Thomas Kraus
  • PBPeter Brand
    Peter Brand
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Abstract
Recently, it has been shown that exposure to welding fumes containing both zinc and copper leads to asymptomatic systemic inflammation in humans as shown by an increase of blood C-reactive protein. In the present study, it was investigated which metal is responsible for this effect. Fifteen healthy male subjects were exposed under controlled conditions to welding fumes containing either zinc, or copper, or copper and zinc. For each exposure blood C-reactive protein increased. Copper- and zinc-containing welding fumes are able to induce systemic inflammation.

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