Common pneumoconiosis caused by long-term inhalation of silica mineral dust. Known since the 18th century, it usually occurs after 10-20 years of exposure in jobs such as mining, stonecutting, grinding, or polishing. The smallest particles do the most damage, killing macrophages (see reticuloendothelial system) that engulf them in the pulmonary alveoli. Dead cells accumulate, forming fibrous masses that reduce lung elasticity. Decreased lung volume and poor gas exchange lead to shortness of breath and then to coughing, difficulty in breathing, and weakness. Patients are vulnerable to tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia. In the absence of effective treatment, control of silicosis depends on prevention with face masks, proper ventilation, and X-ray monitoring of workers' lungs
A fibrogenic pneumoconiosis caused by inhaling crystalline-free silica (quartz) dust; characterized by discrete nodular pulmonary fibrosis and, in more advanced stages, by conglomerate fibrosis and respiratory impairment
Condition of massive fibrosis of the lungs causing shortness of breath because of prolonged inhalation of silica dusts
a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, which is used in the production of glass and ceramics; occurs most often in mining and foundry workers