Silicosis due to Denim Sandblasting in Young People: MDCT Findings

Objective: Occupational lung disease due to silica dust is one of the most common work-related injuries. In denim sandblasting, workers are exposed to silica that may cause immediate mortality, especially in young people. The aim of this study was to assess the multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) fi ndings of silicosis in denim sandblasters and to better defi ne the role of MDCT in the early detection of silicosis. Materials and Methods: The study included 12 consecutive male patients who were admitted to a pulmonary outpatient clinic between April 2009 and December 2009. All patients had been working as sandblasters for at least one year. All patients underwent chest CT examinations for suspected sili-cosis. Two radiologists independently assessed the images for the presence and distribution of airspace consolidation, ground-glass opacity, nodules, interlobular septal thickening, parenchymal bands, fi brosis, masses, traction bronchiectasis, honeycombing, lobular low-attenuation areas, emphysema