Biomarkers related to silicosis and pulmonary function in individuals exposed to silica.

BACKGROUND: The identification of markers that can facilitate the early diagnosis of silicosis has remained challenging. We evaluated the association of inflammatory markers with the presence of silicosis and lung function impairment in individuals exposed to silica. METHODS: Individuals exposed and not exposed to silica were assessed by occupational history, clinical findings, lung function, chest imaging findings, and inflammatory markers. RESULTS: Among 297 men evaluated, 51 were unexposed controls (G1), 149 were exposed to silica without silicosis (G2), and 97 were exposed to silica with silicosis (G3). Inflammatory marker levels were higher in G3 than in G2 and G1. Platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), soluble tumor necrosis factor II (sTNFRII), and macrophage inflammatory protein-4 (MIP-4) were associated with silicosis, and LDH, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), sTNFRII, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), and fibrinogen were negatively associated with lung function. CONCLUSION: Blood inflammatory markers are associated with silicosis and impaired lung function.

Silicoproteinosis en paciente minero en Colombia. Reporte de caso / Silicoproteinosis in a mining patient in Colombia. Case report

La silicosis pulmonar es una enfermedad ocupacional que continúa ocasionando morbilidad en el mundo. Debido a que el sílice es el mineral más abundante en la tierra y en las rocas, son numerosas las fuentes de exposición laboral a la inhalación del polvo de sílice en varios sectores industriales. Por su parte, la silicoproteinosis pulmonar es una forma aguda muy rara de silicosis, que puede desarrollarse con un período de latencia más corto en comparación con la silicosis, luego de la primera exposición al sílice, y se caracteriza por un rápido deterioro de la función pulmonar, sin respuesta efectiva a ningún tratamiento. Por su forma de presentación tan atípica, reportamos el caso de un hombre de 58 años, con antecedente laboral de trabajo en mina de extracción de oro en socavón

Pulmonary silicosis is an occupational disease that continues to cause morbidity in the world. Because silica is the most abundant mineral in soil and rock, sources of occupational exposure to inhalation of silica dust are numerous in various industrial sectors. Alternately, pulmonary silicoproteinosis is a very rare acute form of silicosis, which can develop with a shorter latency period compared to silicosis after the first exposure to silica, and is characterized by a rapid deterioration of lung function, without effective response to any treatment. Due to its atypical form of presentation, we report the case of a 58-year-old man, with a history of working in a gold mine

Characterizing patterns of small pneumoconiotic opacities on chest radiographs of New Mexico coal miners.

Small pneumoconiotic opacities in coal miners are usually described as rounded, regular, and upper zone predominant. We aim to characterize chest radiographic patterns in New Mexico coal miners in comparison with other miners. Of the 330 chest radiographs reviewed, small pneumoconiotic opacities in New Mexico miners were almost always irregularly shaped, and lower lung zone predominant, consistent with diffuse dust-related pulmonary fibrosis. There was no significant difference in patterns of opacities between miners with exposure to coal mine dust exclusively, mixed coal and noncoal mine dust, and no coal dust. Our findings indicate that New Mexico coal miners demonstrate a different pattern of small pneumoconiotic opacities than the classic nodular pneumoconiosis described in the literature, predominantly from Appalachian miners. This may indicate differences in racial/ethnic characteristics or in the silica/silicate content of dust between the Appalachian and Mountain West regions.

Mixed Pneumoconiosis Associated with Diffuse Pulmonary Ossification in Wild Coyotes (Canis latrans).

Mixed pneumoconiosis is a pulmonary disease associated with several inhaled mineral irritants. Dust was found in the alveolar macrophages, alveolar and bronchial walls and pulmonary interstitial tissue of two female coyotes (Canis latrans). The dust contained large amounts of silica, coal, iron and copper particles, which were associated with severe pulmonary disease. Lung injury in the animals was characterized by pulmonary nodules, severe interstitial fibrosis, alveolar hyperplasia and bone formation within alveolar spaces. Coyotes inhaled mineral dust while roaming a field close to three mineral extraction zones. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the concomitant inhalation of multiple minerals in association with diffuse pulmonary ossification in the pulmonary parenchyma of two wild canine animals.

Predictors of health-related quality of life among semi-precious stone mineworkers exposed to silica dust.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to comparatively evaluate HRQOL in miners of semi-precious stones with and without silicosis, and determine the associated factors, as well as the performance of two different questionnaires in measuring HRQOL. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study of 348 male miners (129 with silicosis) who underwent an interview and spirometry, HRQOL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and the Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). RESULTS: Miners with silicosis were older, had less schooling, worked more hours daily, and had longer exposure to silica. They also had worse scores of QoL in both questionnaires. Respiratory symptoms and %FEV1 were contributing factors for the models of total health and all the domains of the SGRQ, and 40% of the variability of the general health domain of WHOQOL-BREF was due to dyspnea, wheezing, %FEV1, and pack-years of cigarette smoking. Respiratory symptoms, lung function, pack-years of cigarette smoking, years of education, and average monthly income were contributing factors for the models of the different domains of the WHOQOL-BREF. CONCLUSIONS: Our study revealed impaired HRQOL in semi-precious stone miners evaluated using both questionnaire tools of SGRQ and WHOQOL-BREF, of which SGRQ had superior performance. Respiratory symptoms, functional impairment, and pack-years of cigarette smoking were the most important determinants of the workers' general HRQOL.

Síndrome de Caplan: la paradoja del pulmón como origen de la artritis reumatoide / Caplan syndrome: the paradox of the lung as the origin of rheumatoid arthritis

Resumen Históricamente, los estudios de campo observacionales han sido el punto de partida para el desarrollo de grandes avances en el entendimiento de las enfermedades autoinmunes. En el caso de la artritis reumatoide (AR), se han descrito varias asociaciones clínicas hasta la actualidad que tienen en común modelos inmunológicos transversales a la historia natural de la misma, lo que ha permitido avanzar en el desarrollo de nuevos objetivos terapéuticos. Se pretende hacer una breve descripción del compromiso nodular en AR, partiendo de las observaciones clínicas del Dr. Anthony Caplan en pacientes con riesgo de neumoconiosis, con el fin de reconocer el valor de este tipo de asociaciones en el ejercicio médico profesional.

Historically, observational field studies have been the starting point for the development of great advances in the understanding of autoimmune diseases. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), several clinical associations have been described to date which have in common immunological models transverse to its natural history, which has allowed progress in the development of new therapeutic objectives. Our aim is to make a brief description of nodular involvement in RA, based on the clinical observations of Dr. Anthony Caplan in patients at risk of pneumoconiosis, in order to recognize the value of this type of association in professional medical practice.

Neumoconiosis / Pneumoconiosis

RESUMEN La neumoconiosis es una enfermedad, con características radiológicas similares a la silicosis, que afecta a los trabajadores dedicados al trasporte de carbón que se exponen durante los procesos de extracción y depósito de polvo de carbón en las centrales térmicas, la industria siderúrgica, la industria química e incluso en la venta y uso de equipos electrodomésticos. Se presenta un paciente de 65 años, con antecedentes de reiterados ingresos por neumonía extra hospitalaria, que presentaba falta de aire después de realizar cualquier esfuerzo físico. La tomografía de tórax confirmó que el paciente había sufrido una exposición prolongada al humo del carbón. Se diagnosticó la presencia de un fibroenfisema bulloso y adenopatías mediastinales. La prevención es la medida más eficaz para la lucha contra esta enfermedad. Se debe implementar el estricto cumplimiento de las medidas técnicas y la vigilancia constante de los niveles de polvo permitidos.

ABSTRACT Pneumoconiosis is a disease, with radiological characteristics similar to silicosis, which affects coal workers during coal dust deposition and extraction in thermal power plants, steel and chemical industry, and even in the sale and use of household appliances. We present a 65-year-old patient with a history of recurrent admissions for community-acquired pneumonia who had shortness of breath on exertion. Chest computed tomography confirmed that the patient had suffered a prolonged exposure to charcoal smoke. The presence of bullous fibroemphysema and mediastinal adenopathies was diagnosed. Prevention is the most effective measure to fight this disease. Strict compliance with technical measures and constant monitoring of permitted dust levels should be implemented.

Lung function and functional exercise capacity in underground semi-precious stone mineworkers.

BACKGROUND: Semi-precious stone mining may cause occupational lung disease. The impact of inhaling silica on workers' exercise capacity has only been partially studied. OBJECTIVES: To study lung function, exercise capacity, and identify factors associated with functional impairment. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study of 193 current miners from Ametista do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, medical and occupational data were collected. The diagnosis of silicosis was established by the history of dust exposure and chest radiographic findings. All workers performed a spirometry and a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). RESULTS: Of the sample 51 (26.4%) had silicosis. Time working in mine was 14.7±8.7 years. Spirometry showed a normal, restrictive or obstructive ventilatory pattern in 75.1 %, 13 % and 9.3 % of the workers, respectively. The diagnosis of silicosis and length of time working in mining negatively affected lung function, although exercise capacity was preserved. In the multivariate analysis, time working in mining, diagnosis of silicosis and education remained significant for forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1; r = 0.60; r2 = 0.36; p < 0.001) and age and height for distance in 6MWT (r = 0.66; r2 = 0.43; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Our results show impaired lung function and preserved exercise capacity in current mineworkers exposed to silica. Length of time working in mining, presence of silicosis and lower education were factors associated with reduced lung function.

Prevalence of pneumoconiosis and spirometric findings in underground mining workers in Cundinamarca, Colombia / Prevalencia de neumoconiosis y hallazgos espirométricos en trabajadores de minería subterránea en Cundinamarca, Colombia

Abstract Introduction: Coal worker's pneumoconiosis is caused by the inhalation of coal dust and its accumulation in the lungs after several years of exposure. Objective: To determine the prevalence of pneumoconiosis in underground mining workers exposed to coal dust in Cundinamarca, Colombia, and its association with their spirometry results and respiratory symptoms. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study conducted on 215 workers who were administered a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms. For each worker a chest radiograph was taken according to the criteria of the International Labor Organization. Information on the workers' socio-demographic characteristics, smoking habits, and spirometry results was included. Results: The average age was 45.5 ± 9.4 years and the average length of employment was 21.7±10.0 years. Expectoration was the symptom most frequently reported (73.5%). Regarding spirometry results, a normal pattern was observed in 89.8% of the sample, while obstructive and restrictive patterns were found in 5.1% and 3.7% of the subjects, and 0.5% had a peripheral airways dysfunction pattern. The prevalence of pneumoconiosis was 42.33%. FEV1/FVC ratio (81.75 vs. 83.74, p=0.045) and FF25-75% (84.96 vs. 91.95, p<0.001) mean values were significantly lower in workers with pneumoconiosis. Conclusion: Pneumoconiosis was highly prevalent in the study population and its diagnosis was associated with spirometry results (FEV1/FVC and FEF25.75%); bearing in mind that currently there are not effective treatments for this disease, it is necessary to implement control and prevention strategies aimed at reducing occupational exposure to coal dust and, this way, prevent its occurrence.

Resumen Introducción. La neumoconiosis de los mineros de carbón resulta de la inhalación de polvo del carbón y se desarrolla después de varios años de exposición. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de neumoconiosis y su relación con los resultados de espirometría y los síntomas respiratorios en trabajadores expuestos a polvo de carbón en Cundinamarca, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Estudio de corte transversal realizado en 215 trabajadores a quienes se les aplicó un cuestionario sobre síntomas respiratorios y se les realizó radiografía de tórax según los criterios de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo. Se incluyó la información relativa a sus características sociodemográficas, hábitos de tabaquismo y resultados de espirometría. Resultados. El promedio de edad fue 45.5±9.4 años y el de experiencia laboral fue de 21.7±10.0 años. El síntoma más frecuente fue la expectoración (73.5%). En la espirometría, se observó patrón normal en el 89.8% de la población, obstructivo en el 5.1%, restrictivo en el 3.7% y de alteración de vías aéreas periféricas en el 0.5%. La prevalencia de neumoconiosis fue de 42.3%. Los valores promedio de FEV1/CVF (81.75 vs. 83.74, p=0.045) y FF25-75% (84.96 vs. 91.95, p<0.001) fueron menores significativamente en los mineros con neumoconiosis. Conclusión. La prevalencia de neumoconiosis fue muy alta en la población estudiada y su ocurrencia estuvo asociada a los resultados de la espirometría (FEV1/CFV y FEF25-75%); teniendo en cuenta que no hay tratamientos eficaces para esta enfermedad, es necesario implementar estrategias de control y prevención diseñadas para reducir la exposición laboral al polvo de carbón y, de esta forma, prevenir su aparición.

Asbestos in Colombia: Industry versus science and health / Asbesto en Colombia: industria versus ciencia y salud

Abstract The usefulness of an industrial product must be measured both in economic profitability and product safety terms, and the social benefit it represents. In the case of asbestos, due to its harmful effects on human health, its use, handling and production has been banned in high-income countries thanks to the efforts carried out by their oversight bodies. Worldwide, the industrial use of this mineral has been associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, hence the importance of denouncing the health effects of asbestos. Asbestos is a term used to refer to six naturally occurring silicate minerals that are used in the manufacture of building materials, such as asbestos-cement, and automotive components, including brake linings and brake pads; however, it has been proven that inhaling asbestos microscopic fibers can lead to the development of lung diseases (pneumoconiosis) and cancer. In many cases, these diseases are caused by a short occupational or environmental exposure to it, but their clinical manifestation occurs several years after the first time of exposure. The main objective of this paper is to reflect on the hazards related to the use of asbestos and to influence public health policies addressing this problem in Colombia, so that by means of the newly adopted law banning the use of this mineral in our country, significant progress is made in aspects such as the identification and the monitoring of people who were exposed to it, and the handling, removal and final disposal of materials containing asbestos.

Resumen La utilidad de un producto industrial se debe medir tanto por su rentabilidad económica, como por su seguridad y beneficio social. En el caso del asbesto, debido a sus efectos adversos sobre la salud, su uso, manipulación y producción se ha prohibido en países de altos ingresos gracias a esfuerzos realizados por sus respectivos entes de control. A nivel mundial, el uso industrial de este mineral se ha asociado con altas tasas de morbimortalidad, de ahí la importancia de denunciar sus efectos para la salud. El asbesto comprende un grupo de seis minerales fibrosos de origen natural que la industria utiliza en la fabricación de materiales de construcción en fibro-cemento y frenos de automóviles; sin embargo, se ha demostrado que la inhalación de sus fibras microscópicas puede producir enfermedades pulmonares (neumoconiosis) y cáncer. En muchos casos, estas enfermedades son causadas por una corta exposición laboral o ambiental al material y se manifiestan años después. El principal objetivo de este documento es reflexionar sobre los peligros del uso del asbesto e influir en las políticas de salud pública al respecto, esto para que con la recién aprobada ley que prohíbe el asbesto en Colombia se logren avances significativos en temas como la identificación y el seguimiento de las personas que estuvieron expuestas, y el manejo, remoción y eliminación de los productos que contienen el mineral.

Diagnóstico diferencial de la fibrosis pulmonar idiopática / Differential diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Para el diagnóstico certero de fibrosis pulmonar idiopática (FPI) es de vital importancia la presencia de un patrón tomográfico definitivo de neumonía intersticial usual (NIU), en un contexto clínico adecuado. El interrogatorio dirigido, el uso de cuestionarios validados, una evaluación reumatológica acuciosa y exámenes complementarios son importantes para descartar causas secundarias de fibrosis pulmonar como neumonitis por hipersensibilidad (NHS), enfermedades del tejido conectivo (ETC), toxicidad por drogas y algunas neumoconiosis que pueden imitar el patrón radiológico y muchas veces dificultar un diagnóstico adecuado de FPI.

For the accurate diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), the presence of a definitive tomographic pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) is of vital importance, in an appropriate clinical context. Targeted interrogation, the use of valid questionnaires, an acute rheumatologic evaluation and complementary examinations are important to rule out secondary causes such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), connective tissue diseases (CTD), drug toxicity and some pneumoconiosis that can mimic the radiological pattern and often hinder a clear diagnosis of IPF.

Evaluación de la exposición al polvo de carbón y de sílice en sitios de minería subterránea en tres departamentos de Colombia / Evaluation of the exposure to coal dust and prevalence of pneumoconiosis in underground mining in three Colombian departments

Introducción. La neumoconiosis de mineros del carbón es una enfermedad crónica e irreversible que se considera un problema de salud pública. Objetivo. Estimar la prevalencia de neumoconiosis y sus factores asociados en mineros de carbón de Boyacá, Cundinamarca y Norte de Santander. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio de corte transversal en 476 mineros. Se les hizo valoración médica, se tomaron radiografías de tórax siguiendo los criterios de la Organización Internacional del Trabajo, así como espirometrías, y se identificaron los polimorfismos de la glutatión S-transferasa y de las enzimas de reparación. Las asociaciones entre las condiciones ocupacionales y de la empresa con la neumoconiosis, se estudiaron usando modelos de regresión de Cox. Resultados. En 31 empresas se hicieron 479 monitorizaciones ambientales y se evaluaron 476 trabajadores cuyo tiempo de trabajo fluctuaba entre 10 y 57 años. La prevalencia de la neumoconiosis fue de 33,8 % (IC95% 27,0-41,3). En el modelo de regresión multivariado de Cox, con tiempo de riesgo constante para la neumoconiosis, esta se asoció significativamente con el trabajo en empresas medianas (razón de prevalencias, RP=2,00; IC95% 0,995- 2,690; p=0,052), con un nivel alto de exposición al polvo de carbón según el índice de exposición (RP=2,055; IC95% 1,043-4,048; p=0,038), y una antigüedad de 25 años o más (para 25,0 a 29,9 años: RP=2,199; IC95% 1,449-3,338; p=0,001). Conclusiones. La prevalencia de la neumoconiosis fue muy alta y se asoció a la exposición a altos niveles de polvo de carbón, a una exposición laboral mayor o igual a 25 años y al trabajo en empresas medianas.

Introduction: Coal workers' pneumoconiosis is a chronic and irreversible disease representing a public health problem. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of pneumoconiosis and its associated factors among underground coal miners in the Colombian departments of Boyacá, Cundinamarca and Norte de Santander. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 476 miners to measure the prevalence of pneumoconiosis and its associated factors such as coal dust and silica levels, as well as the occupational conditions. The medical assessment and a chest x-ray were performed according to the International Labor Organization criteria, along with spirometry and the identification of glutathione S-transferase and repair enzyme polymorphisms. The associations were explored using Cox regression models. Results: We performed a total of 479 environmental monitoring sessions in 31 companies and we evaluated 476 workers with 10 to 57 years of mining work experience. The prevalence of pneumoconiosis was 33.8% (95% CI: 27.0 - 41.3%). In the Cox multivariate regression model with a constant risk time, pneumoconiosis was significantly associated with working in medium-sized companies (PR=2.00, 95% CI: 0.995 - 2.690; p=0.052), the level of severe exposure to coal dust (PR=2.055, 95% CI: 1.043 - 4.048; p=0.038), and working in underground mining for 25 years or more (for those with 25.0-29.9 years: PR=2.199, 95% CI: 1.449 - 3.338; p=0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of pneumoconiosis was very high and was found to be associated with severe exposure to coal dust, work exposure for 25 years or more and working in medium-sized enterprises.

Modificação do perfil da silicose na mineração subterrânea de ouro em Minas Gerais / Changes on the silicosis profile in underground gold mining in Minas Gerais, Brazil

Resumo Introdução: Minas Gerais é o estado brasileiro com maior registro de casos de silicose, sendo grande parte proveniente de casuísticas acumuladas das minerações de ouro. Objetivos: descrever e analisar temporalmente a ocorrência de silicose na mineração de ouro identificando fatores ocupacionais relacionados. Métodos: estudo transversal com 1.020 ex-mineiros da região de Nova Lima/MG, avaliados entre 1995 e 2011. Resultados: o diagnóstico de silicose foi confirmado em 19,7% dos avaliados. Nenhum caso da doença foi identificado em indivíduos que trabalharam apenas na superfície. A prevalência no grupo que trabalhou até 5 anos no subterrâneo foi de 3,8% e no grupo com mais de 20 anos de trabalho nesse local foi de 44,2%. Os admitidos para trabalho subterrâneo até 1950 apresentaram prevalência de 57,9%. Entre os admitidos após 1990, não houve registro de casos. Conclusão: verificou-se uma queda expressiva na ocorrência de silicose no período analisado. Uma vez que a doença é sabidamente dose-dependente, é esperado que a diminuição dos níveis de exposição, obtido pelas melhorias dos ambientes ocupacionais, tenha refletido nestes resultados. É fundamental que tais medidas continuem a ser adotadas na mineração e em outros ramos de atividade visando reduzir a ocorrência da doença.

Abstract Introduction: Minas Gerais is the Brazilian state with the highest record of silicosis cases, mostly from gold mining. Objectives: to describe and analyze the occurrence of silicosis in gold mining over time, identifying occupational related factors. Methods: cross-sectional study with 1.020 former miners from the region of Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, evaluated from 1995 to 2011. Results: silicosis diagnosis was confirmed in 19.7% of the miners evaluated. No cases were identified in individuals who worked only on the surface. The prevalence among those who worked underground was 3.8% for the group up to 5 years and 44,2% for the group that worked over 20 years. Those admitted to work underground up to 1950 had a prevalence of 57.9%. Among those admitted after 1990, there were no cases recorded. Conclusion: we found an expressive decline in the silicosis occurrence in the period. Because silicosis is dose-dependent, it is expected that decrease in exposure levels was due to improvements in work environments. These measures must continue to be adopted in mining and in other branches of work activity to reduce the occurrence of silicosis.

Mycobacterium nonchromogenicum en un paciente con neumoconiosis: reporte de un caso en atención primaria / Mycobacterium nonchromogenicum in a patient with pneumoconiosis: report of a case in primary care

La neumoconiosis es una patología pulmonar crónica producida por el daño tisular que originan algunos tóxicos al ser inhalados durante ciertos periodos. El caso presentado corresponde a un paciente inmunocompetente con silicoantracosis, un tipo de neumoconiosis, en quien se detecta infección pulmonar por Mycobacterium nonchromogenicum en un centro de atención primaria en Bogotá, Colombia, poco común y de gran interés médico.

Pneumoconiosis is a chronic lung disease, caused by the inhalation of toxins that produces lung tissue damage; one type of pneumoconiosis is silicoanthracosis. In this reported case, we described an immunocompetent patient that has a pulmonary infection by Mycobacterium nonchromogenicum at a primary care center in Bogotá, Colombia; being an unusual case.

What is expected in lung function after lung transplantation due to end-stage pulmonary silicosis?

In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of lung transplantation (LTx) on pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and survival among patients with end-stage silicosis. We included patients with end-stage silicosis on the wait list for LTx, between January 1989 and July 2015 (N = 26). Sixteen of these patients received LTx; 10 were eligible, but did not undergo LTx (non-LTx) during the study period. Retrospective information on PFTs (spirometry [volumes and flows], 6-minute walking test [6MWT], and DLCO) was retrieved from patients' medical charts, including baseline information for all patients and follow-up information for the LTx. At baseline, most patients presented with spirometric and 6MWT values that were suggestive of severe disease (FEV1 /FVC 76.5 ± 29.7; 6MWT 267.4 ± 104.5 m). Significant increases in these values were observed at follow-up in the LTx (P = .036 and .151, respectively). The overall median survival of patients in the LTx and non-LTx was 3.35 years (95% CI: 0.16-14.38) and 0.78 years (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.12-3.65) (P = 0.002), respectively. For patients with end-stage silicosis, LTx offers significant benefits regarding pulmonary function and survival when compared to non-LTx, and is a reliable tool to help this critical population of patients, whose only treatment option is LTx.

Enfermeiro do trabalho na prevenção da silicose: uma revisão integrativa / Enfermero de trabajo en prevención de la silicosis: una revisión integradora / Occupational health nurse in the prevention of silicosis: an integrative review

Objective: to investigate the spread of knowledge regarding silicosis and to identify the occupational health nurse course of action to prevent it. Method: It is an integrative review of the literature held in the databases: LILACS, SciELO, BDENF and PubMed. The employed keywords were “silicosis”, “occupational health nursing” and “pneumoconiosis”, published in Portuguese, Spanish and English, in the years of 2004 to 2014. Eight articles met the inclusion criteria were selected and answered the guiding questions. Results:The selected articles seek to deepen the knowledge on silicosis, to estimate its prevalence, to establish the patient’s profile, to describe the major symptoms, to identify the major risk factors associated with the disease and to evaluate the quality of living of those afflicted by it. Conclusion: Silicosis is a public health problem with high prevalence and which requires very specific strategies to its prevention and control, especially those developed in occupational health nursing.

Objetivo: averiguar a divulgação do conhecimento sobre silicose e identificar ações do enfermeiro do trabalho para sua prevenção. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura realizada nas bases dedados LILACS, SciELO, BDENF e PubMed, utilizando-se os descritores “silicose”, “enfermagem do trabalho” e “pneumoconiose”, nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol, dos anos de 2004 a 2014. Foram selecionados oito artigos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e responderam as questões norteadoras. Resultados: Os artigos selecionados abordam a silicose, estimam sua prevalência, delineiam o perfil dos portadores, descrevem os principais sintomas, identificam fatores de risco associados e avaliam a qualidade de vida dos acometidos. Conclusão: A silicose é um problema de saúde pública com alta prevalência, que necessita de estratégias específicas para seu controle e prevenção, especialmente aquelas desenvolvidas no âmbito da enfermagem do trabalho.

Objetivo: investigar la difusión del conocimiento sobre la silicosis e identificar las acciones del enfermero trabajo para su prevención. Método: Se trata de una revisión integradora de la literatura realizada en las bases de dados LILACS, SciELO, BDENF y PubMed utilizando las palabras clave “silicosis”, “enfermería de trabajo” y “neumoconiosis”, en Portugués, Inglés y Español. Fueron seleccionados de los años 2004 a 2014 ocho artículos que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y respondieron a las preguntas de orientación. Resultados: Los artículos seleccionados cubren silicosis, valorar su prevalencia, definir el perfil de los pacientes, describir los síntomas principales, identificar los factores de riesgo asociados y evaluar la calidad de vida de los afectados. Conclusión: La silicosis es un problema de salud pública con una alta prevalencia, que requiere estrategias específicas para su control y prevención, especialmente las desarrolladas en la enfermería de trabajo.

Silicosis prevalence and risk factors in semi-precious stone mining in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Underground mining generates large amounts of dust and exposes workers to silica. This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictor factors for the development of silicosis among semi-precious-stone mineworkers in southern Brazil working in a self-administered cooperative. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study of 348 current workers and retirees, demographic data, medical, and occupational history were collected through an interview performed by a nurse and medical record review. Risk factor associations were studied by Poisson multivariate regression. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of silicosis was 37%, while in current miners it was 28%. Several risk factors for silicosis were identified in the univariate analysis. Inadequate ventilation in the underground galleries combined with dry drilling, duration of silica exposure, and (inversely) education remained significant in the multivariate analysis (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study is unusual in studying semi-precious stone mineworkers in a self-administered worker cooperative with limited resources. The prevalence of silicosis was very high. A number of recommendations are made-including technical support for worker cooperatives, surveillance of silica exposure and silicosis, exposure reduction measures, and benefits allowing impaired miners to leave the industry.

DUALIDAD, LA LOCOMOTORA MINERA Vs. EL PULMÓN NEGRO / DUALIDADE, LOCOMOTIVA MINERA Vs. PULMÃO PRETO / Duality, mining locomotive vs. black lung

La neumoconiosis es caracterizada por el depósito nodular difuso de polvo en los pulmones como resultado de la exposición prolongada a polvo bituminoso o de antracita en los trabajadores de las minas de carbón. La neumoconiosis de los mineros del carbón también se denomina enfermedad del pulmón negro o antracosis. Un minero del carbón que padece o desarrolla una Antracosis puede presentar numerosos nódulos redondeados pulmonares en poco tiempo. Dichos nódulos aparecen en ocasiones en ausencia de una antracosis simple. A nivel histológico pueden parecerse a los nódulos reumatoides, pero tienen una zona periférica de inflamación aguda. Estos nódulos representan la respuesta inmunológica a la diátesis reumatoide asociada. En Colombia la minería es un factor estratégico a nivel económico para su desarrollo. Sin embargo, existen factores negativos derivados de ésta que giran en una carrera sin control ni reglas claras; esta actividad hace trámite en el territorio, arrastrando una estela de problemas sobre la sociedad, el ambiente, el bienestar y la salud de las personas.

Pneumoconiosis is characterized by diffuse nodular dust in the lungs as a result of prolonged exposure of workers in coal mines to bituminous dust or anthracite. Pneumoconiosis presented in coal miners is also called black lung disease lung. A coal miner who develops Anthracosis can present numerous pulmonary rounded nodules in a short time. These nodules appear sometimes in the absence of a simple anthracosis. Histologically they may look like resemble rheumatoid nodules, with the difference; they have a peripheral area of acute inflammation. These nodes represent the immune response associated to rheumatoid diathesis. In Colombia, mining is a strategy for economical development. However, there are negative factors arising rotating it in a race without control or clear rules; This activity is pending in the territory, dragging a trail of problems on society, the environment, welfare and People's health

A pneumoconiose é caracterizada por poeira nodular difusa nos pulmões como resultado da exposição prolongada a poeiras betuminosas ou antracite nas minas de carvão. Pneumoconiose de mineiros de carvão também chamado preto ou preto doença pulmonar pulmão. Um mineiro de carvão que sofre ou desenvolve uma antracose pode apresentar numerosos nódulos pulmonares arredondados em um curto espaço de tempo. Estes nódulos aparecem às vezes na ausência de uma antracose simples. Histologicamente podem assemelhar-se a nódulos reumatóides, mas têm uma área periférica de inflamação aguda. Esses nódulos representam a resposta imune associada à diátese reumatóide. A mineração na Colômbia é um fator estratégico economicamente para o desenvolvimento. No entanto, existem fatores negativos decorrent surgindo girando-o em uma corrida sem controle ou regras claras. Esta atividade está pendente no território, arrastando um rastro de problemas na sociedade, o meio ambiente, bem-estar e da saúde das pessoas.

Silicose e esclerose sistêmica (síndrome de Erasmus): a importância do reconhecimento da associação entre doenças / Silicosis and systemic sclerosis (Erasmus syndrome): the importance of the recognition of the association between diseases

Contexto: Silicose é uma doença pulmonar ocupacional crônica, fibrogênica, de evolução lenta, caráter progressivo e irreversível, causada pela exposição à sílica livre. Esclerose sistêmica (ES) é uma doença de caráter autoimune, com alterações vasculares e fibrose tecidual difusa. Associação entre ambas, denominada síndrome de Erasmus, já é conhecida há vários anos e geralmente ocorre após 15 anos do início da exposição à sílica. Objetivo: Revisão da literatura referente à associação entre silicose e ES. Método: Selecionados artigos nacionais e internacionais obtidos na íntegra, referentes à pneumoconiose, silicose, ES e a associação entre essas duas últimas doenças, sendo incluídos aos resultados os manuscritos que abrangiam especificamente a síndrome de Erasmus. Resultados: Encontrados na literatura nacional relatos de casos de síndrome de Erasmus, os quais apresentavam ES e exposição prévia à sílica com duração que variou de 2 a 15 anos, atividade laboral interrompida há mais de 7 anos, pacientes do sexo masculino, média de idade 46 anos, sendo a principal atividade jateamento de areia; e havia relato em 3 casos de uso inapropriado de equipamentos de proteção. Entre os cinco casos em que a tuberculose foi investigada, três apresentaram a associação entre tuberculose pulmonar e síndrome de Erasmus. Conclusão: Importância do reconhecimento precoce da associação entre silicose e ES, dando ênfase na história ocupacional. O diagnóstico da síndrome de Erasmus por pneumologistas, reumatologistas e médicos do trabalho permitirá intervenções mais efetivas e um tratamento precoce, que proporcionarão um melhor prognóstico para esses pacientes.

Context: Silicosis is a chronic occupational lung disease, fibrogenic, slowly evolving, progressive and irreversible, caused by the exposure to silica. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease with vascular changes and diffuse tissue fibrosis. The association between both, called Erasmus syndrome, has been known for several years and usually occurs after 15 years from the beginning of exposure to silica. Objective: To review the literature regarding the association between silicosis and SSc, known as Erasmus syndrome. Method: Selected national and international articles retrieved in full, related to pneumoconiosis, silicosis, SSc and the association between these two last diseases; manuscripts which specifically dealt Erasmus syndrome were included in the results. Results: Reports of Erasmus syndrome were found in the national literature, which presented SSc and previous exposure to silica with duration ranging from 2 to 15 years of exposure, interrupted employment business for over 7 years, male patients, mean age of 46 years, being the main activity sandblasting, and 3 cases of improper use of protective equipment were reported. Among the five cases in which tuberculosis was investigated, three showed the association between pulmonary tuberculosis and Erasmus syndrome. Conclusion: Importance of early recognition of the association between silicosis and SSc, with emphasis on occupational history. The diagnosis of Erasmus syndrome by pulmonologists, rheumatologists and occupational physicians will enable more effective interventions and early treatment, which will provide a better prognosis for these patients.