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 courses 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.