Occupational Lung Disease

Question 1

What is the difference between simple and complicated pneumoconiosis?

Answer 1

Simple: CXR abnormality only (no lung function impairment, often associated with COPD). Complicated: progressive massive fibrosis (restrictive pattern with breathlessness).

Question 2

What is Caplan’s syndrome?

Answer 2

Rheumatoid pneumoconiosis (caused by rheumatoid arthritis). Shows up on CXR with pulmonary nodules.

Question 3

What kind of workers get silicosis and how long do they need to be exposed for?

Answer 3

Mining, foundry workers, glass workers, boiler workers. 15-20 years exposure.

Question 4

What are the signs of silicosis on a CXR?

Answer 4

Egg-shell calcification of hilar nodes.

Question 5

What are the stages of pleural disease caused by asbestos?

Answer 5

1. Benign pleural plaques (asymptomatic). 2. Acute asbestos pleuritis (fever, pain, bloody pleural effusion). 3. Pleural effusion and diffuse pleural thickening (restrictive impairment). 4. Malignant mesothelioma.

Question 6

What does chronic silicosis cause?

Answer 6

Restrictive pattern, pulmonary fibrosis.

Question 7

What does asbestosis cause and how is it detected?

Answer 7

Diffuse pulmonary fibrosis and restrictive defect; asbestos bodies in sputum, asbestos fibres in lung biopsy.