Case of acute pneumoconiosis vs. accelerated by silicates.

Abstract

Silicosis is an occupational lung disease caused by the inhalation of silica dust. The clinical presentation can be acute, with up to 5 years of exposure; accelerated, with less than 10 years; and chronic, with more than 10 years of exposure. The World Health Organization and the International Labor Organization include among their actions the identification of workers at risk. This study presents a case of pneumoconiosis in a worker in charge of the production of sand and clay as raw materials for other industries and who was exposed to the silicate, which has a lower concentration of silica in its composition, with an exposure time of 5 years and 11 months. The interest of this study lies in the identification of new sources of risk, since this sector very rarely reported at the national level and the need for adequate preventive measures, such as monitoring of particulate matter, engineering controls, administrative controls, and use of respiratory protection. These aspects, together with workers' education and information, are main components in the prevention of this disease.