Conglomerated masses of silicosis in sandblasters: high-resolution CT findings.
The purpose of this study was to describe the high-resolution CT aspects of the silicosis and progressive massive fibrosis in sandblasters. The study was performed with 25 consecutive patients with silicosis and large opacities on chest radiography according to the International Labor Office (ILO) classification of pneumoconiosis. All patients presented with conglomerate masses involving the upper lobes, and in 92% of the cases the lesions were located in the posterior region of the lungs. The masses frequently showed nodular contour (76%), air bronchograms (76%), foci of calcification (72%), paracicatricial emphysema (72%), and adjacent pleural thickening (92%). Calcification of hilar or mediastinal lymph nodes (96%), mainly of the egg-shell type (56%), was also a common finding. In conclusion, in this specific group of patients, the sandblasters, the high-resolution CT demonstrated conglomerated masses with nodular contour, air bronchograms and foci of calcification, which were distributed mainly in the posterior region of the upper lobes. Calcification of hilar or mediastinal lymph nodes was also commonly seen.
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. edmarchiori@zipmail.com.br
Edson
E
Marchiori
Angela
A
Ferreira
Flávia
F
Saez
José Manoel
JM
Gabetto
Arthur Soares
AS
Souza
Dante L
DL
Escuissato
Emerson L
EL
Gasparetto
D000328:Adult; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic; D012822:Silicon Dioxide; D012829:Silicosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000209:etiology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*
D012822:Silicon Dioxide