Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a slaughterhouse

Workers employed in the agricultural and livestock industries are exposed to various bioaerosols, including organic dust, endotoxins and microorganisms. These bioaerosols can be respiratory health hazards, with the potential to cause airway disorders, as in this case. We describe the case of a 52-year-old male who presented with two episodes of acute exacerbations (AE) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during work, while suspending live chickens for slaughter. The patient was exposed to high levels of bioaerosols, including endotoxins and microorganisms. Endotoxins can induce bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation, and COPD patients are more vulnerable to airway infections caused by microorganisms inhaled with bioaerosols. This study suggests that a high level of bioaerosols may induce airway infections, resulting in acute exacerbations of COPD.