European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Silicosis is a fibrotic pneumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of fine particles of crystalline silicon dioxide (silica). Certain occupations such as mining, quarrying, denim
sandblasting and tunnelling are associated with silicosis(1). There are three different clinical presentations: chronic, accelerated, and acute silicosis. The length of exposure and the latency period are crucial for the development of silicosis. The most common types of pneumoconiosis are the fibrotic forms of pneumoconiosis, comprising silicosis, coal worker's pneumoconiosis (CWP), and asbestosis(9). The condition is preventable; however, no specific treatment exists, although a small proportion of patients may receive a lung transplant