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.

• Keywords: Silicosis;Lung cancer;Cement dust;Plastering