Nickel-related cancers of the respiratory tract.

Nickel-related cancers of the respiratory tract have been recognized for nearly 50 years and represent a unique opportunity for prevention among refinery workers. Studies of exposed employees have been conducted in which evaluations were made of the histopathologic changes in the respiratory mucosa and the body burden of nickel was measured by regular plasma nickel determinations. The sites of tumor predilection are related to airflow patterns of the nose and tracheobronchial tree. The metaplastic changes in these areas are accompanied by increased tissue concentrations of nickel. Close monitoring of nickel workers has led to a lower incidence of respiratory cancers and earlier diagnosis.