Silicosis

Key Features

• Extensive or prolonged inhalation of free silica (silicon dioxide) particles (sandblasters, foundry, granite and stone cutting, molding, ceramics) in the respirable range (0.3–5 mcm)

• Small, rounded opacities (silicotic nodules) throughout the lung

Clinical Findings

• Calcification of peripheral hilar lymph nodes ("eggshell" calcification) strongly suggests silicosis

• Incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis is increased in patients with silicosis

Diagnosis

• Simple silicosis is usually asymptomatic without effect on routine pulmonary function tests

• Complicated silicosis presents with large conglomerate densities in the upper lung; dyspnea with obstructive and restrictive pulmonary dysfunction is common

Treatment

• All patients require a tuberculin skin test and chest radiograph to rule out tuberculosis