title: Pulmonary silicatosis. A case diagnosed by needle-aspiration biopsy and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis.
abstract: The diagnosis of silicatosis was made by observing birefringent crystals in needle-aspiration biopsy specimens of bilateral basilar pulmonary masses in a clay worker, initially suspected of having metastatic neoplasm. Subsequently the crystals were examined by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis, which gave supportive evidence for their silicate composition. This experience indicates that needle-aspiration biopsy in conjunction with scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis may be used in the diagnosis of benign pulmonary diseases, especially those of the inhalational fibrogenic variety.
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D003460:Crystallization; D004577:Electron Probe Microanalysis; D006801:Humans; D008264:Macrophages / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D011009:Pneumoconiosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D012824:Silicic Acid; D012822:Silicon Dioxide; D014965:X-Rays
chemical_list: D012824:Silicic Acid; D012822:Silicon Dioxide