Silicosis initially presenting with empyema

The current global outbreak of artificial stone silicosis is a recrudescence of a major occupational disease in the context of a novel exposure source. Respirable crystalline silica exposure, even without frank pneumoconiosis, is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infection. Empyema is a well-recognized complication of bacterial pneumonia; pneumonia among working-age adults, in turn, has been epidemiologically linked to occupational exposure to fumes and dust, including silica. A connection between empyema and silica dust inhalation has not been reported, however, whether through antecedent pneumonia or another mechanism. We describe a case of silicosis initially presenting with empyema in a 31-year-old Computerized Numerical Control stone-cutting machine operator who had heavy exposure to artificial stone and other rock dust.