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216 WILLIAM V. LORIMER T AL
The relationship between pulmonary function signs of restriction and abnormal x-rays was investigated. No significant association was found (Table
X). Chest x-*ay: The chest x-rays were read twice by consensus reading, using
at least three experienced readers, and categorized according to the 1LO/U/C classification. An x-ray was read as abnormal if fine or moderately thin, irregular linear opacities were present (s or t > 1/0) and/or pleural thickening was present (a-1 or more). The prevalence of abnormal readings is given in Table XI. Parenchymal abnormalities were present in 19 instances, nine 1/0, six 1/1, two 1/2 and two 2/2. X-ray findings consistent with asbestosis increased with time; such a trend is evident in Table XII. This trend is statistically significant.
TABLE X
Relationship between X-Ray Reading and i'ulmonary Function Tests in 87 Vehicular Maintenance Workers
Pulmonary function
Number of Subjects
X-ray reading
Percent
Restriction Obstruction Normal
25 Abnormal* 5 20%
Normal
20
80%
43 Abnormal* 15 35%
Normal
28
65%
30 Abnormal* 8 27%
Normal
22
73%
* parenchymal fibrosis Slid/or pleural thickening For overall pa (.tern X' - 1.78 .50 > p > .30 For restriction alone X* - 1.21 .30 > p > .20 For obstruction alone X' - 1.60 .30 > p > .20 For obstruction and restriction compared to normal: X1 - .08
.80 > p > .70
TABLE XI X-Ray Changes in 90 Vehicular Maintenance Workers with over 10 Years' Experience
Number
Percent
Parenchvmal fibrosis Pleural thickening or calcification Both parenchymal and pleural chances Any changes
18 20% 5 6% I 1% 24 27%
TABLE XII X-Ray of Vehicular Maintenance Workers by I'rsr of Onset of Work
Abnormal*
1956-65
1946-55
Before 1946
Yes No Yes No Yes
3 14 10 33 14
(18%)
(23%)
(47%)
No 16
* Parenchymal Fibrosis (1LO/UC a, t > I/O) and/or pleural thickening X' for before 1956 compared with 1956 and alter: X' - 5.95 .02 > p > .01
*