Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2025

A Silicosis Mouse Model Established by Repeated Inhalation of Crystalline Silica Dust
Published on: January 6, 2023
[Silicosis]
Paul K Schoonbeek1,2, Arnoud J G Knoops3, Gerda J de Groene4
1Jeroen Bosch Ziekenhuis, afd. Longgeneeskunde, Den Bosch.
Background:
Silicosis is a potentially severe but preventable occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of silica particles. There is a wide application in the usage of silica especially in lesser known industries. This disease has yet not been eradicated due to insufficient application of protective measures.
Case Description:
A 57-year-old patient presents to the pulmonary outpatient clinic with progressive dyspnea d'effort. The professional history states that he worked as a sandblaster 10 years ago. The accompanying protective measures were not properly followed by the patient at the time. The CT chest showed a nodular interstitial lung disease and silica particles were detected in the bronchial lavage conforming the diagnosis of silicosis.
Conclusion:
Early detection of silicosis is essential to prevent further lung damage and silicosis associated complications. The occupational history and radiological diagnostics are essential to confirm the diagnosis. There is no specific treatment for silicosis. Therefore prevention is better than cure.
Related Concept Videos
COPD: Pathogenesis and Clinical Features
The primary cause for the onset of COPD is cigarette smoking and exposure to air pollution. These hazardous factors initiate a chain reaction within the lungs, resulting in chronic inflammation, damage to the airways, and a...
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description
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...
Other Pulmonary Disorders
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation

