Beryllium Compound

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** An inorganic substance that contains the metallic element beryllium with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity and is corrosion resistant. Beryllium compounds are used in the electronics, automotive, aerospace, defense and nuclear industries. Inhalation exposure to beryllium compounds can cause pneumonitis, and prolonged exposure can result in berylliosis, characterized by occurrence of granulomatous fibrosis in the lungs. Beryllium compounds are known human carcinogens and are associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - Beryllium - Beryllium compound