Features of the WTC syndrome:
(1) responder (rescue, recovery, fireman, cleanup) exposed to the World Trade Center disaster
(2) new onset of signs and symptoms (see below)
(3) signs and symptoms not explained by other cause
Signs and symptoms include combinations of:
(1) chronic rhinosinusitis
(2) asthma and/or bronchitis and/or bronchiolitis
(3) gastroesophageal reflux
(4) dyspnea
(5) decline in FEV1
The onset may be delayed.
Risk factors:
(1) greater exposure to dust
(2) lack of respiratory protection
Some patients have developed:
(1) interstitial lung disease
(2) sarcoid-like granulomatous pulmonary disease
Many of the workers with WTC Syndrome also experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
