Imaging of pneumoconiosis

Nodules in both silicosis and coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP) are small, centrilobular and have a predominantly upper lobe distribution.Progressive massive fibrosis may occur in both silicosis and CWP.Heavy exposure to silica can lead to silicoproteinosis.Asbestos-related conditions may be pleural:Pleural plaquesDiffuse pleural thickeningBenign pleural effusionMesotheliomaOr may be parenchymal:Asbestosis (interstitial fibrosis)Round atelectasisBronchogenic carcinoma