Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026

A Silicosis Mouse Model Established by Repeated Inhalation of Crystalline Silica Dust
Published on: January 6, 2023
High prevalence of silicosis among stone carvers in Brazil
Vinícius Cavalcanti dos Santos Antão1, Germania Araujo Pinheiro, Jorge Kavakama
1Reference Center for Occupational Lung Diseases, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. vfc1@cdc.gov
Background:
In the city of Petrópolis, Brazil, artisans carve souvenirs from a variety of silica-containing minerals. The finding of pulmonary massive fibrosis in one of the workers motivated an investigation of the prevalence of silicosis in this group.
Methods:
Between January 2000 and June 2002, a cross-sectional study was performed. We obtained clinical and occupational histories, spirometry, lung volumes, and carbon monoxide diffusion capacity measurements. Chest radiographs and high-resolution computed tomographies (HRCT) were evaluated. Personal air samples were analyzed.
Results:
Forty-two stone carvers were examined. The prevalence of silicosis was 53.7%. HRCT better characterized silicotic lesions compared to chest radiographs. Early coalescence of small opacities was associated with lung function impairment. The concentration of dust exceeded permissible limits in 91% of the workplaces.
Conclusions:
Exposure to high levels of silica dust was associated with an increased prevalence of silicosis among stone carvers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 45:194-201, 2004.
Related Concept Videos
Quarrying of Stone
One common method involves using a diamond belt saw to cut large blocks from the quarry face. These blocks can be about 50 feet long and 12 feet high. After the initial vertical cut, drilling is performed at the base of the block.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...
Porosity and Absorption of Aggregate
When all pores in an aggregate are filled with water, the aggregate is considered saturated and surface-dry. If left in dry air, water will evaporate until the aggregate...
Stone Masonry
Types of Building Stone
Igneous rocks are formed from the solidification of magma or lava. An example is granite, known for its durability and resistance to weathering, making it ideal for parts of...
Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
