[X-ray morphological changes and the degree of lost work capacity in silicosis patients]

In a series of 200 patients with silicosis an analogy is drawn between form, size, widespreading and evolution of the pneumoconiotic changes, on the one had, and working ability loss, on the other. It is established that the heavier the form of the pneumoconiotic process, the higher the degree of severity and widespreading of the roentgenmorphological changes in the lungs and the quicker the evolution, the heavier the retriction of the ability for work among the affected. The conclusion is reached that that the working ability of patients with silicosis represents a complex phenomenon resulting from numerous factors with varying in intensity effect. A new, more complex and updated method for the assessment of working ability in patients with silicosis is proposed.