What are some health effects of beryllium?

Beryllium is an element not known to be used by either
plants or animals. Beryllium dust is known to be toxic and it is corrosive to tissues.
In certain individuals, a chronic, serious condition called berylliosis can occur which
is life threatening. Beryllium is a carcinogen and long term exposure can lead to lung
cancer. For people who have been exposed to beryllium, some can develop chronic
beryllium disease or CBD, resulting in respiratory problems, night sweats, fatigue, dry
cough and weight loss, anorexia, heart disease. CBD occurs when the immune system
recognizes the small beryllium particles in the lungs and mounts an immune response.
White blood cells collect around the beryllium particles forming granulomas which
interfere with the functioning of the lungs. Therefore, it is important to minimize
exposure to beryllium dust.