Acute Silicosis

Acute silicosis is the rapidly progressive form of silica-related lung disease that follows exposure to an unusually high burden of respirable crystalline silica. A worker may develop dyspnea, cough, fatigue, fever, or weight loss within two years of the exposure. Chest imaging commonly shows diffuse ground-glass opacities or micronodular infiltrates. The combination of an intense occupational exposure, a short latency, and worsening oxygenation should make acute silicosis a priority consideration rather than being attributed automatically to asthma, COPD, or uncomplicated pneumonia. The first practical response is to stop further silica exposure and assess respiratory stability. Oxygen and other supportive measures may be required, while the patient is evaluated for infection, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, and other causes of diffuse lung injury. Corticosteroids are not established routine therapy; specialist-directed trials may be considered only in severe disease because evidence of benefit is limited.