pulmonary disorders
Silicosis
Etiology of Silicosis
Silica is one of the most abundant minerals in the earth's crust and is widely distributed in nature. Silicosis is caused by inhalation of respirable particles of crystalline silica (usually quartz). Workers at greatest risk are those who move or blast rock and sand (miners, quarry workers, stonecutters, construction workers) or who use silica-containing rock or sand abrasives (sand blasters, glass makers, foundry, gemstone, and ceramic workers, potters). Outbreaks of severe silicosis have also been identified in workers in the engineered stone industry. Factors that influence the incidence and severity of silicosis include Duration and intensity of exposure Form and surface characteristics of the silica particles Amorphous silica, such as glass or diatomaceous earth, does not have a crystalline structure and does not cause silicosis. 