Coal Worker’s Pneumoconiosis Flashcards
What causes Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis?
Inhalation of coal dust particles.
Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis
Inhaled dust particles ingested by macrophages which die & release their enzymes causing fibrosis.
Is there any impairment of lung function with simple pneumoconiosis?
No impairment of lung function
What pneumoconiosis is often associated with COPD?
Simple
Fibrosis in complicated pneumoconiosis
Progressive massive fibrosis
What condition is caused by coal dust + smoking?
Chronic bronchitis
Caplan’s Syndrome
Pneumoconiosis in coal workers with rheumatoid arthritis.
What does caplans syndrome cause?
Pulmonary nodules.
Symptoms
Dyspnoea, cough, weight loss, wheeze, barrel chest.
Signs
Crackles on auscultation, areas of dullness on percussion, cyanosis, clubbing.
CXR for Caplan’s syndrome
Bilateral peripheral nodules.
Investigations
CXR & Spirometry
Complications
Pulmonary fibrosis
Lifestyle changes for treatment
Smoking cessation & removal of occupational exposure.
