"Between 10-20% of patients with simple CWP have small central calcifications within these nodules on chest radiograph, which are contrasted to the more diffuse calcifications of silicosis 13-14. The eggshell calcification pattern of simple silicosis is seen in less than 2% of patients with simple CWP 13."
"CT "
Expected headings
"Simple CWP"
"Plain radiograph"
"CT "
"Complicated CWP"
"Plain radiograph"
"MRI"
"Nuclear medicine"
"Complications"
"Coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP) is an occupational disease (type of pneumoconiosis) caused by exposure to coal dust free of silica (washed coal). Histologically, coal workers' pneumoconiosis is classified according to disease severity into simple (presence of coal macules) and complicated (with progressive massive fibrosis) 3,7."
"There are three main effects from carbon (inclusive of coal dust) on the lungs:"
"There is often a diffuse (typically perilymphatic) distribution of small nodules throughout the lungs, which tend to favour the upper lungs. About 30% of patients have calcifications with nodules on CT. Hilar or mediastinal lymph node enlargement has also been reported in 30% of patients 11."
"There is no specific treatment (i.e. supportive care only) although lung transplantation is an option for patients with end-stage disease 19. CWP can progress even after exposure to coal dust has ceased 19."