Educação em saúde: silicose

Abstract

Silicosis is a fibrosing lung disease caused by the inhalation and deposition of crystalline silica particles causing a reaction of the lung. Although it can be prevented is a disease in which there is no specific treatment and can cause serious problems for the health of the worker. The aim of this article is to review concepts and characteristics of silicosis, besides presenting ways of preventing this disease among workers. In clinical terms, extent and severity of silicosis caused by the fact that chronic disease and that due to an autoimmune pathogenetic component evolves irreversibly and may lead to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, tuberculosis, nontuberculous mycobacteriosis, glomerulonephritis, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and other autoimmune diseases. Silicosis can present three distinct forms: acute, chronic or accelerated and its diagnosis is based on clinical and occupational history, coupled with radiological findings. To date, there is no specific treatment for silicosis that is effective and based on clinical trials, while control of its complications. One suggestion for reducing the number of patients with silicosis is prevention through health education.