- 12 - 
development of antibodies against antigens associated with the organisms or 
products In a particular process or when they are simply stored In a bank and 
held at -70°C for future study or for reference In the event of Illness. 
Periodic Follow-up Examinations - Comprehensive periodic medical 
examinations are generally of little value In the detection of occupational 
disease. Any periodic examinations Incorporated Into a surveillance program 
must be specifically targeted toward evaluation of the particular hazards 
which may confront a particular group of workers. For example, studies of 
endocrine function might be devised for workers engaged In the production of 
peptide or steroid hormones, or appropriate evaluations of Immune function 
undertaken for workers producing Interferon or other Immunochemicals. 
Follow-up Evaluation of Illness - A biotechnology worker who develops 
Illness or Is absent from work for 46 hours without explanation should be 
actively evaluated. The Importance of such active pursuit cannot be 
overemphasized. The evaluation of such Illness should consider (a) whether 
the symptoms are In any way relatable to the microorganisms or products In the 
worker's place of employment, (b) whether an accident has occurred In the 
facility; and whether the 111 worker was Involved In the accident; and (c) 
whether any Illnesses have occurred In co-workers. 
Epidemiological and Other Long-Term Follow-up Studies - The likelihood 
that epidemiologic evaluations of biotechnology workers will In the near term 
produce useful results Is slight, given the relatively small manbers of 
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