Occupational disease from inhalation of crystalline silica dust Exposure to respirable silica particles most commonly leads to which disease?

Introduction / Context:
Crystalline silica (quartz, cristobalite) is a well-known occupational hazard in mining, construction, foundries, and abrasive blasting. The respirable fraction penetrates deep into the lungs and causes chronic disease. Identifying the specific condition tied to silica informs monitoring and control strategies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Exposure is to respirable crystalline silica over time.
• No respiratory protection or inadequate engineering controls are assumed in the risk scenario.

Concept / Approach:
Silicosis is a fibrotic lung disease arising from silica dust inhalation and pulmonary deposition. While pneumoconiosis is a broader category of dust-related lung diseases (e.g., coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, asbestosis), silicosis is the specific diagnosis for silica. Bronchitis refers to airway inflammation and is not uniquely caused by silica.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Clinical and epidemiological literature consistently names silicosis as the hallmark disease of chronic silica exposure, often detectable via chest imaging and pulmonary function tests.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing acute silicosis (rapid onset with very high exposure) with chronic silicosis (long-term exposure); both exist but share the silica etiology.

Final Answer:
silicosis