Evaluation of cytological features of sputum smears obtained from fuel station attendants exposed to gasoline fumes

Abstract

Background: Fuel pump attendants are individuals that work in filling stations. They are constantly exposed to fumes of petrol, gas, diesel and automobile engine products from vehicle exhaust. This increases the risk of acute and chronic respiratory diseases and
carcinogenesis among them. The risk of health complications increase with the duration of exposure.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the cytological features of sputum smears obtained from fuel station attendants exposed to gasoline fumes.
Methods: Sputum samples were collected from 150 subjects, of which 100 were fuel pump attendants (test group) and 50 were control subjects who are not fuel pump attendants. Questionnaire was administered to both groups prior to sample collection. Samples collected were processed and smears were made immediately and fixed in 95% alcohol. The fixed smears were stained with Heamatoxylin and Eosin and Papanicolaou staining techniques. Stained smears were examined under the microscope and photomicrographs were taken.
Results: The smears revealed that 82(82%), 37(37%) and 23(23%) of fuel pump attendants had infiltrate of inflammatory cells, atypical cells and cytoplasmic granulation respectively. About 19(19%), 22(22%) and 48(48%) of fuel pump attendants had pyknotic cells, multinucleated squamous cells and increased nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio.
Conclusion: This study revealed respiratory health risks in fuel pump attendants, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive safety measures.