What are the key clinical features to consider when diagnosing silicosis in a patient with a history of occupational exposure?

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 and Chambers, 2020). A crucial clinical feature to consider is the strong association between silicosis and tuberculosis (Rees and 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 and Murray, 2007). Silicosis is recognised as a significant silica-related disease (Hoy and Chambers, 2020).