Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
When diagnosing silicosis in a patient with a history of occupational exposure, a detailed occupational history, specifically regarding silica exposure, is a primary consideration Hoy & Chambers 2020. A crucial clinical feature to consider is the strong association between silicosis and tuberculosis Rees & Murray 2007. Therefore, the presence of symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis, such as chronic cough, fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss, should prompt investigation in patients with suspected silicosis Rees & Murray 2007. Silicosis is recognised as a significant silica-related disease Hoy & Chambers 2020.
Key References
- CG163 - Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in adults: diagnosis and management
- NG12 - Suspected cancer: recognition and referral
- CKS - Lung and pleural cancers - recognition and referral
- CKS - Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- CKS - Palliative care - cough
- CKS - Sarcoidosis
- NG115 - Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in over 16s: diagnosis and management
- (Rees and Murray, 2007): Silica, silicosis and tuberculosis.
- (Hoy and Chambers, 2020): Silica-related diseases in the modern world.
- (Hua et al., 2023): Pathology and Mineralogy of the Pneumoconioses.