This retrospective observational study focus on the follow up of patients diagnosed with pulmonary silicosis seen in pneumology outpatient clinics from 2012 to 2022.Comparative analysis was carried out between patients who had worked with artificial stone (AP)and in mining(M).

A total of 44 patients who had worked with artificial stone (28),mining (10),sandblasters (2), dental technicians (2), porcelain (1) and packaging (1) were assessed. Table 1 shows the demographic data and work history of the patients exposed to PA and M. The patients exposed to PA were younger with a mean age of 50 (+/- 7.1 years) and had a lower latency time of 18 year (10.75) although this difference was not statistically significant. The presence of gastroesophageal reflux, metabolic comorbidities and COPD were more frequent in the mining group (Fig 1).Table 2 shows the relevant respiratory symptoms and their relationship with the last tests of pulmonary function. The most frequent spirometric affectation was obstructive in both groups. As a clinical-radiological presentation, the patients who had worked with PA had a higher frequency of  interstitial pulmonary fibrosis and a lower percentage of cases of simple silicosis, although without statistically significant differences. The need for lung transplantation and death from silicosis were more frequent in the group of PA workers.

Conclusions

When compared with the classic forms of silicosis, PA silicosis occurs in younger people with a tendency to have shorter latency times and considerable clinical severity. This experience highlights the danger of working with artificial stone and the need to adopt adequate preventive measures as well as look for alternatives with safer materials.