Open AccessA Case Report of Silicosis: Culprit of Progressive Massive Fibrosis
Author(s) -
Ann Hon Shu,
Thai Lee Lian,
Jintang Qin
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
borneo journal of medical sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2710-7353
pISSN - 1985-1758
DOI - 10.51200/bjms.vi.3149
Subject(s) - silicosis , medicine , chest radiograph , occupational lung disease , pneumoconiosis , pulmonary function testing , exacerbation , lung , pulmonary fibrosis , surgery , radiology , pathology
Silicosis is a fibronodular lung disease secondary to the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. It had continued to cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Here is a case of a 63-year-old woman, a lifelong non-smoker who complained of intermittent wheezing since retired 8 years ago. She had worked in the clay and piping industry for more than a decade. She wore only a simple 3-ply face mask at work without other protective devices. She had multiple hospital admissions for acute exacerbation of chronic lung disease for the past several years. Respiratory examinations revealed bilateral fine crepitations and occasional rhonchi on auscultation. Chest radiograph revealed ground glass changes. Pulmonary function testing showed an irreversible severe obstruction picture with an FEV1 of 45%. High resolution computed tomography thorax demonstrated hyperinflated lungs with emphysematous changes and multiple nodules over subpleural region, conglomerate mass with calcifications over bilateral lungs. Her imaging findings combined with a significant occupational history were suggestive of progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) due to silicosis. She is currently being treated with several inhalers and does not require home oxygen therapy. She is suffering from accelerated silicosis which may potentially progress to radiological deterioration, altered respiratory function and premature death. Therefore, it is essential to avoid any potential hazards that may predispose to silicosis.