Here’s the paraphrased study-note version:

135. Toxicology – Metal Fume Fever

Source

Metal fume fever is an acute illness caused by inhalation of metal oxide fumes, classically zinc oxide. It is most often seen in welders, smelters, and others who work with heated metals.

Typical Presentation

A worker develops a flu-like illness several hours after welding or similar metal exposure. Symptoms may recur after time away from work, such as after a weekend, and then become less severe with repeated daily exposure.

This pattern is sometimes called “Monday fever.”

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism is not fully understood. It appears to involve an inflammatory response in the lungs rather than a true allergic reaction.

Repeated exposure can produce temporary tolerance, but this tolerance may fade after a period away from work.

Clinical Features

Symptoms usually begin within a few hours of exposure and may include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Malaise
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort

Chest X-rays are often normal.

Management

Treatment is mainly supportive:

• Remove the patient from further exposure
• Rest and hydration
• Symptomatic treatment for fever and discomfort
• Evaluate for other causes if symptoms are severe, prolonged, or atypical

Most cases resolve spontaneously within a short period.

Key Points

• Classically associated with zinc oxide fumes from welding.
• Symptoms resemble an acute viral illness.
• Onset is usually several hours after exposure.
• Temporary tolerance can develop with repeated exposure and disappear after time away.
• Prevention depends on proper ventilation and occupational respiratory protection.