Occupational Lung Disease Flashcards
What is pneumoconiosis?
Interstitial lung disease caused by particulate inhalation “A man made disease”
What is the causative agent in pneumoconiosis?
Carbon containing particulate from coal mining
What is the presentation of coal workers pneumoconiosis?
Primarily asymptomatic, if symptoms develop they are non-specific
- SOB
- Cough
- Sputum production (+/- black tinged)
- Chest tightness
Besides coal workers pneumoconiosis coal dust can also cause what lung diseases?
Chronic bronchitis and/or COPD
What are the supportive treatment options for coal workers pneumoconiosis?
Bronchodilators
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Supplemental oxygen
Smoking cessation
? Lung Transplant
What is the preferred diagnostic imaging for silicosis?
Chest CT, it is better to differentiate from asbestosis
Of the occupational lung diseases which one presents with a non-productive cough?
Asbestosis
What is the pathognomonic chest CT finding for asbestosis?
Pleural plaques
What are two cancer types that are complications of asbestosis?
Mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer
What is the treatment for hypersensitivity pneumonitis?
Oral corticosteroids
Avoid further exposure, likely occupational change
What are the three possible mechanisms of damage associated with smoke inhalation?
- Impaired oxygenation (CO or cyanide –> oxygen displacement)
- Upper airway thermal burns
- Lower airway chemical injuries or physical irritants
What are the complications associated with smoke inhalation?
- ARDS
- Sloughing of bronchiolar mucosa (obstruction, hypoxia, and atelectasis)
- Pneumonia
