Pneumoconioses

Disorder Risk Factors Objective Findings Complications
Silicosis Mine worker with silica or glass, sandblasting, ceramics Upper zone predominant nodular infiltrates ± calcifications, hilar adenopathy Massive fibrosis, emphysema, risk for TB
Asbestosis Jobs involving insulation, demolition, construction or shipbuilding decades prior to presentation Calcified linear pleural plaques, ferruginous bodies in alveolar septae Increased risk for lung cancer (especially in smokers), particularly bronchogenic carcinoma; mesothelioma
Anthracosis (Coal Dust) Coal Miners Upper zone nodular infiltrates Massive fibrosis, emphysema
Berylliosis Nuclear or aerospace field worker, ceramics worker Diffuse opacities, hilar adenopathy, noncaseating granulomas Respiratory impairment, may require long-term corticosteroids
Mnemonic

  • Asbestos is from the roof (was common in insulation), but affects the base (lower lobes).
  • Silica, coal, and berries are from the base (earth), but affect the roof (upper lobes).

Mnemonics


“Silly Sandrocks! She builds tunnels�?

Silicosis:

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原始发布�?achingtentacles

�?Betoinsults that ship’s pipes�?

Asbestosis

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原始发布�?banditnarwhal

�?Busy cotton*�?

Byssinosis:

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原始发布�?mabohstarbuck

�?Very electronic*�?

Berylliosis:

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原始发布�?bullet-proof-love-ptv

�?Sugar* makes me *vaga�? (vaga is Spanish for lazy)

Bagassosis:

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原始发布�?yoitskojo

Pathophysiology

Classifications


Asbestosis

Silicosis

Mnemonic

The silly egg sandwich I found is mine!

Clinical features


Diagnostics


Treatment