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Silicosis — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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ModerateRespiratorySilicosisRACP Adult Medicine

A 38-year-old man presents with 2 months of progressive dyspnoea and a dry cough. He works in a stone-cutting factory. HRCT shows upper-lobe predominant nodular opacities with eggshell calcification of hilar lymph nodes. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Silicosis

Upper-lobe nodular opacities with eggshell calcification of hilar lymph nodes in a stone cutter is pathognomonic for silicosis. Silica dust causes a fibrotic reaction predominantly in the upper lobes. Eggshell calcification is highly characteristic. Progressive massive fibrosis may develop in advanced disease.

Reference: Safe Work Australia – 2024 – Occupational Lung Disease; eTG Respiratory 2024