Occupational health: Inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust most commonly leads to which clinical outcomes?

Introduction:
Crystalline silica exposure is a classic occupational hazard in mining, construction, and foundries. The primary disease is silicosis, a fibrotic lung condition. The clinical picture includes breathlessness and a heightened risk of certain infections. Recognizing the correct outcomes supports prevention and surveillance programs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Exposure to respirable crystalline silica, not inert dust.
• Chronic or significant exposure scenarios.
• No respiratory protection assumed for the risk discussion.

Concept / Approach:
Silica particles lodge in the alveoli and trigger inflammation and fibrosis. Fibrotic change reduces lung compliance and gas exchange, leading to progressive shortness of breath. In addition, silica impairs macrophage function and predisposes to infections, notably tuberculosis, due to compromised cellular immunity within the lung.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify hallmark disease: silicosis with fibrotic nodules.Link fibrosis to dyspnea: scarring reduces pulmonary capacity and causes breathlessness.Recognize infection risk: silica exposure increases susceptibility to tuberculosis.Thus, both shortness of breath and tuberculosis correctly describe outcomes.

Verification / Alternative check:
Occupational health guidance emphasizes periodic chest imaging and TB screening in silica exposed workers, confirming both mechanisms of harm.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Asphyxiation: silica does not displace oxygen like inert gases. Options naming only one effect are incomplete. Metal fume fever is linked to zinc oxide fumes, not silica dust.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming silicotic lungs recover after exposure stops. Fibrosis is largely irreversible, so prevention through dust control and respirators is critical.

Final Answer:
Both shortness of breath and tuberculosis