Silicosis Epidemic among Engineered Stone Countertop Workers: Pictorial Review

Area of Science:

• Occupational Medicine
• Radiology
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Silicosis, a type of pneumoconiosis, is caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust.
• Historically prevalent in miners, silicosis is reemerging in engineered stone countertop workers due to high silica content.
• Engineered stone pneumoconiosis presents unique challenges in diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the imaging features of silicosis in engineered stone countertop workers.
• To raise awareness among radiologists about this emerging occupational lung disease.
• To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and recognition.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a patient cohort of engineered stone countertop workers in Southern California.
• Review of imaging findings associated with engineered stone silicosis.
• Comparison of observed features with historical descriptions of silicosis.

Main Results:

• Accelerated silicosis and atypical imaging features were more common than expected.
• Features included diffuse nodules, ground-glass opacities, large opacities, and infections.
• Extrapulmonary diseases like cardiovascular and autoimmune conditions were frequently observed.

Conclusions:

• Engineered stone silicosis often presents with atypical features, leading to underdiagnosis.
• Radiologists play a critical role in identifying silicosis in affected workers.
• Early diagnosis is essential to prevent further silica exposure, as silicosis is incurable.