The masses may undergo ischemic necrosis and cavitation. CT is useful in further characterizing the disease and can determine the presence of early coalescence and emphysema better than plain films. In this particular case, the CT clearly shows the calcified lymphadenopathy, the conglomerate masses and the surrounding emphysema. Silicosis is a chronic nodular fibrosing disease of the lungs caused by a prolonged exposure to free crystaline silica. Almost all cases of silicosis are due to occupational exposure through hard rock mining, sandblasting, or foundry work.
Silicosis is produced by the inhalation of silica particles and their cytotoxic effect on the lungs.
A diagnosis of silicosis depends on a history of silica exposure and chest radiographic abnormalities. Computed Tomography of Pneumoconioses. Stark P., Jacobson F., Shaffer K. Standard Imaging in Silicosis and Coal Worker's Pneumoconiosis. Radiologic Clinics of North America.