JOEM: Progressive Massive Fibrosis Risk Factors (July 2022)-JOEM: Progressive Massive Fibrosis Risk Factors (July 2022)

JOEM: Progressive Massive Fibrosis Risk Factors (July 2022)

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Progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) is a type of pneumoconiosis that is characterized by fibrotic lesions in the lungs. A study aimed to identify the risk factors for PMF and determine the clinical and occupational characteristics of patients with the disease. The study evaluated 129 patients diagnosed with PMF and analyzed their personal, occupational, radiological, and functional findings.<br /><br />The study found that sandblasting workers were diagnosed with pneumoconiosis at an earlier age compared to workers in other professions. Dust exposure durations for sandblasting and ceramic workers were significantly lower than those for workers in other occupations. There was a negative correlation between lung function and the size of small opacities and large opacities. However, there was no relationship between large opacity size and factors such as smoking status, concomitant tuberculosis, and duration of dust exposure.<br /><br />The study suggests that an effective surveillance system should be established to monitor factors that accelerate the progression of pneumoconiosis. It also highlights the need for proper screening and diagnostic methods for acute and accelerated silicosis in industries exposed to freshly crushed silica. The study concludes that strategies to reduce high-intensity silica dust exposure and enforce screening programs are urgently required.<br /><br />The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of PMF-related risk factors, particularly in non-coal mining industries. The study emphasizes the importance of workplace dust measurements and the need for comprehensive surveillance and preventive measures to reduce the occurrence and severity of PMF.

Keywords

Progressive massive fibrosis

pneumoconiosis

fibrotic lesions

risk factors

sandblasting workers

dust exposure

lung function

opacities

silicosis

workplace dust measurements