Which metals are most commonly associated with metal fume fever?

The condition known as metal fume fever is primarily associated with exposure to zinc and copper, particularly in the context of welding and metallurgical processes. When zinc is heated, as in processes like welding galvanized steel, it can vaporize and then condense into fine particles that are inhaled. This inhalation can trigger an acute reaction in susceptible individuals, resulting in symptoms akin to a flu-like illness.

While copper can also cause respiratory irritation when inhaled, it's zinc that is primarily responsible for metal fume fever due to its distinct pathophysiological properties when fumes are generated during high-temperature applications. Although copper and zinc are often encountered together in various industrial settings, the strong association of metal fume fever specifically emphasizes zinc's predominant role. Understanding this association is critical for industrial hygienists as it relates to risk assessment and the implementation of appropriate protective measures in workplaces where welding and other high-temperature metal processes occur.