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Nasal cancer from wood dust — DOccMed MCQ

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HardOccupational CancerNasal cancer from wood dustDOccMed

A 59-year-old furniture-maker develops unilateral nasal obstruction, epistaxis and anosmia. He has spent 35 years sanding hardwood in small workshops with inconsistent extraction. What is the most likely occupational diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Nasal adenocarcinoma associated with hardwood dust exposure

Hardwood dust exposure is associated with sinonasal adenocarcinoma. Unilateral obstruction and epistaxis are concerning features needing urgent ENT assessment. Allergic rhinitis would more often be bilateral and variable. Occupational asthma affects the lower airway rather than causing unilateral nasal obstruction.

Reference: HSE Wood dust guidance; IIDB prescribed diseases guidance