[Current possibilities of the biometrology of dust in specimens of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid].

This study attempts to present the current possibilities of investigation of an occupational risk, in particular that of asbestosis, by metrology of dusts in bronchoalveolar washings (BAW). This is a retrospective evaluation of metrological data obtained in a period of six years by study of almost all of the 1338 samples of BAW referred to this laboratory from various pulmonary medicine departments. With regard to the metrology of asbestos fibres in BAW samples, an explanation is given for the fact that routine analytical possibilities are limited to the numbering of asbestos bodies (AB). The specificity of the AB marker is discussed. Reference data are indicated concerning the efficacity of the collection of AB from washings, the relationship between concentrations of AB in BAW samples, parenchyma samples and sputum, and the interpretation of AB concentrations in BAW samples. Current data show that BAW samples are sensitive indications, but there is a lack of specificity. With regard to the biometrological investigation of BAW samples concerning occupational hazards other than asbestos, a large number of studies remain to be undertaken.