A Case-study of a Plastering and Waterproof Worker Suffering from Silicosis and Lung Cancer.
- Author:
Kyoo Sang KIM
1
;
Min Heui JO
;
Byung kyu KIM
Author Information
1. Industrial Safety & Health Research Institute, KOSHA, Korea. kobawoo@kosha.net
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Silicosis;
Lung cancer;
Cement dust;
Plastering
- MeSH:
Asbestos;
Chest Pain;
Dust;
Employment;
Humans;
Hypogonadism;
Lung;
Lung Neoplasms;
Medical Records;
Mitochondrial Diseases;
Ophthalmoplegia;
Silicon Dioxide;
Silicosis;
Stress, Psychological;
Workplace
- From:Korean Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
2008;20(2):153-159
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: We report on a case-study of a silicosis sufferer with lung cancer, who was exposed to cement dust through plastering and waterproof work in the construction industry. METHODS: We reviewed his personal history including employment, medical record and estimated level of carcinogenic materials in the work place in order to evaluate the possible source of his lung cancer. RESULTS: The patient was a non-smoker and there was no family history of lung cancer. His medical record did not reveal anything of concern. He was exposed to cement dust while he had worked for 20 years as a plasterer and waterproof worker. After complaining of chest pain, he was examined and subsequently diagnosed with lung cancer (RUL, adenocarcinoma; cT4N2M1). He was treated in a hospital for 3 months before passing away. Radiological evaluation by high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) revealed micronodules with a profusion category 1 (p/p, 1/1) in the perilymphatic distribution, which indicated silicosis. Small amounts of cement dust which included silica was identified by environmental evaluation of his work place. He never worked with asbestos related material, which was confirmed by HRCT examination. CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that the patient's silicosis with lung cancer was an occupational-caused disease due to exposure to cement dust.
