Overview
Definition
Also known as 'Black Lung Disease,' an interstitial lung disease caused by the inhalation and accumulation of coal dust.
Epidemiology
Exclusive to coal miners, particularly those working underground.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Inhalation of coal dust. Alveolar macrophages engulf the dust and accumulate in the interstitium, forming 'coal macules'.
Clinical Symptoms
- Simple CWP is usually asymptomatic
- Complicated CWP (Progressive Massive Fibrosis) causes severe dyspnea, cough, and melanoptysis (black sputum)
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Chest X-ray / HRCT: Upper lobe predominant small nodular opacities
- Occupational history is key to diagnosis
Management
- No specific cure. Remove from exposure.
- Symptomatic treatment (Oxygen, bronchodilators)
Complications
- Progressive Massive Fibrosis (PMF)
- Caplan Syndrome (CWP + Rheumatoid Arthritis + Rheumatoid nodules in lungs)
- Cor Pulmonale