Pneumoconiosis (silicosis) in the confectionery industry

Pneumoconiosis is not reported in food industry workers, and more specifically in the confectionery industry. We diagnosed diffuse pulmonary interstitial nodular fibrosis due to inhalation of powder containing quartz in a 54 year-old asymptomatic woman. Silicosis was due to a 5-year period of talc dust exposure 35 years earlier in the confectionery industry. The diagnosis was supported by a history of exposure, transbronchial lung biopsy specimen, 67Gallium scan, and CT scan. Our patient had an unusual history of exposure, which was not readily disclosed until the patient's memories, and after consultation with an expert in confectionery techniques, indicated she had been exposed to talc powder during her employment in the confectionery industry.