Background

Pneumoconiosis are lung diseases caused by inhalation of mineral dust, organic and inorganic particles, gases and chemical vapors, with consequent lung inflammation and fibrosis. Individuals are generally exposed in the workplace, hence the majority are considered occupational diseases. These illnesses can have a mild and transient course or a chronic and aggressive evolution, requiring last-line treatment, such as lung transplantation.

Case description

We describe a clinical case of a 46-year-old woman with history of occupational exposure to silica, working in a stone (quartz) cutting factory for 25 years, who had parakeets as pets. She presented with exertional dyspnea, progressively worsening, for a year, which resulted in the diagnosis of silicosis and extrinsic allergic alveolitis (EAA). We describe monitoring and therapeutic follow-up.

Discussion

Silicosis, a major occupational lung disease, is caused by inhalation of crystalline silicon dioxide (as quartz). It is a progressive disease, with irreversible pulmonary fibrosis and gradual decline in lung function. EAA is an interstitial lung disease characterized by an immunological reaction in the lung parenchyma in response to repetitive inhalation, causing sensitization. The diagnosis of these entities is generally clinical and based especially on occupational/environmental history, complemented by suggestive imaging. Treatment is mostly supportive, with lung transplantation being considered in terminal illness.

Conclusion

This clinical case emphasizes the essential role of prevention, namely in managing exposure in the workplace and implementing protection measures. It also highlights the important role of the Family Doctor, through its biopsychosocial approach, in health education, in the early diagnosis of these pathologies and in preventing the progression of the disease and the development of complications, associated with high morbidity and mortality.

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