Evolution of functional respiratory disorders in different types of pneumoconiosis

Three homogeneous groups of patients with silicosis, coal workers' pneumoconiosis and arc welders' pneumoconiosis had been reexamined after an interval of six years. The same examinations were repeated on each occasion with the purpose of evaluating the evolution of radiographic and functional changes. The clinical course, roentgenographic findings and results of function tests differed in the three groups. In silicosis and coal workers' pneumoconiosis the roentgenographic changes showed distinct progression. This progression was less evident in coal workers' pneumoconiosis, but deterioration of pulmonary function was more pronounced than in silicosis, apparently due to emphysema. In pneumoconiosis of welders roentgenographic changes showed a clear tendency to regression and respiratory function was not impaired.