pulmonary disorders
Silicosis
Key Points
Silicosis remains an important and under-recognized occupational lung disease in the United States and worldwide. Chronic silicosis is the most common form, but there have been outbreaks of acute and accelerated silicosis. Diagnosis is based on a history of exposure and consistent imaging findings. Silicosis is associated with increased risk of tuberculosis, COPD, lung cancer, and systemic rheumatic disease. Treatment is largely supportive. 