Lung pathologic findings in a local residential and working community exposed to World Trade Center dust, gas, and fumes.

OBJECTIVE: To describe pathologic findings in symptomatic World Trade Center-exposed local workers, residents, and cleanup workers enrolled in a treatment program.

METHODS: Twelve patients underwent surgical lung biopsy for suspected interstitial lung disease (group 1, n = 6) or abnormal pulmonary function tests (group 2, n = 6). High-resolution computed axial tomography and pathologic findings were coded. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy was performed.

RESULTS: High-resolution computed axial tomography showed reticular findings (group 1) or normal or airway-related findings (group 2). Pulmonary function tests were predominantly restrictive. Interstitial fibrosis, emphysematous change, and small airway abnormalities were seen. All cases had opaque and birefringent particles within macrophages, and examined particles contained silica, aluminum silicates, titanium dioxide, talc, and metals.

CONCLUSIONS: In symptomatic World Trade Center-exposed individuals, pathologic findings suggest a common exposure resulting in alveolar loss and a diverse response to injury.