Silicosis

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Coal worker's lungs - chest X-ray	Coal workers pneumoconiosis, complicated #2	Coal workers pneumoconiosis - stage II	Coal workers pneumoconiosis - stage II #2
Respiratory system

Acute silicosis; Chronic silicosis; Accelerated silicosis; Progressive massive fibrosis; Conglomerate silicosis

There is no specific treatment for silicosis. Removal of the source of silica exposure is important to prevent further worsening of the disease. Supportive treatment includes cough suppression medications, bronchodilators, and oxygen if needed. Antibiotics are prescribed for respiratory infections as needed.

Other considerations for treatment include limiting continued exposure to irritants, smoking cessation, and routine tuberculosis skin testing.

People with silicosis are at high risk for developing tuberculosis (TB). Silica is believed to interfere with the body's immune response to the bacteria that causes TB. Yearly skin testing to check for exposure to TB is recommended. Treatment with anti-TB drugs is recommended for people with a positive skin test. Any change in the appearance of the chest x-ray may indicate TB.

Support groups with others who suffer from silicosis or related diseases may help you understand your disease and adapt to its treatments and other changes in your life that result from it.

The outcome varies and depends upon the extent of damage to the lungs.

• Increased risk for tuberculosis
• Progressive massive fibrosis

Call your health care provider if you have an occupational exposure to silica and symptoms develop.

Review Date: 08/10/2005
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.