Beryllium 

Beryllium metal was ground, machined, and modified in a variety of settings at the Nevada Test Site. Beginning in March 2001, we began offering the beryllium lymphocyte proliferation test (BeLPT) to eligible former workers attending our screening. Beginning in June 2001, we plan to notify and invite former screening participants believed to be exposed to beryllium to take the BeLPT. 

Beryllium dust and oxides can cause three types of disease. These are beryllium sensitization, chronic beryllium disease (CBD), and acute beryllium disease (ABD). Beryllium sensitization is an allergic reaction to beryllium metal. People with beryllium sensitization do not show any signs of disease. However, because people with beryllium sensitization are sensitive to beryllium, they are at risk for developing a much more serious illness called chronic beryllium disease. Chronic beryllium disease (CBD), or berylliosis, is a scarring disease of the lungs. Symptoms can include dry cough, shortness of breath, tiredness, chest and joint pain, rapid heart rate, loss of appetite, fever, and night sweats. CBD can develop anytime from a few months to 40 years after a person’s first exposure to beryllium. Acute beryllium disease (ABD) occurs immediately after a high exposure to beryllium. Since the 1950’s there have been very few cases of ABD due to improved industrial practices. 

Between 1-6 percent of those exposed to beryllium will get beryllium disease. At the present time, there is no cure. However, if detected early, treatment can prevent the disease from getting worse.

If you are concerned about possible beryllium exposure at the Nevada Test Site and would like to receive more information, please contact Sandie Medina toll free at 1-888-636-8161. From the Las Vegas area, please call (702) 636-8777.