Fibrotic lung disease, occupational

Chronic fibrotic occupational lung diseases include asbestosis (see p 121), silicosis, coal workers pneumoconiosis, and a few other less common fibrotic lung diseases associated with occupational exposures to such substances as beryllium and hard metal (cobalt-tungsten carbide). These conditions occur after years of exposure and with long latency, although patients may present for evaluation after an acute exposure. Referral for follow-up surveillance is appropriate if exposure is anticipated to be long term. 

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