complicated silicosis; progressive massive (silico) fibrosis

Introduction

Disabling & life-threatening disorder.

Etiology

autoimmune mechanism is postulated

Pathology

• begins as simple silicosis
• gradually produces bilateral, symmetrical pulmonary nodules (> 1 cm) in the upper lung fields
• compensatory emphysema
• hypoxemia
• cor pulmonale

Laboratory

• antinuclear antibody may be positive
• rheumatoid factor may be positive

Diagnostic procedures

• Pulmonary function testing: obstructive & restrictive patterns

More general terms

• silicosis

More specific terms

• Caplan's syndrome