Lung granulomatosis in a dental technician

Dental technicians are potentially exposed to various occupational dusts and chemicals. Not surprisingly, occupational related lung diseases have been documented in this population.

We describe the case of a dental laboratory technician presenting progressive exertional dyspnea and cough. We used lung function tests, computed tomography, histological examination, mineralogical and immunological studies to characterize his condition.

Lung function studies disclosed a restrictive pattern with a low diffusion capacity. A high-resolution CT scan revealed the presence of micronodules in both lungs corresponding to non-caseating foreign body granulomas at histological examination. Mineralogic studies showed the presence of silica, silicates, and aluminum. The lymphocytic transformation test was positive with the bronchoalveolar lavage for beryllium.

This dental technician developed pulmonary granulomatosis. Combined histological, mineralogical, and immunological studies led us to consider the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis most likely related to occupational exposure to beryllium and aluminum.