A case series on Silicotic Broncho-stenosis

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Silicosis is an Occupational Fibrosing disease of lung caused by inhalation of Respirable Crystalline Silica. Chronic exposure to silica dust causes various complications such as Anthracofibrosis, External compression by lymph node, Endobronchial Tuberculosis, Broncholithiasis leading on to Broncho-stenosis. This study aims to study the aetiology and various morphological features of Silicosis induced Broncho-stenosis. Methodology: An observational descriptive case series consisting 7 patients of Silicosis with broncho-stenosis were included in this study. Their detailed history and clinical examination were recorded. Bronchoscopy showing broncho-stenosis due to Anthraco-fibrosis, broncholithiasis, Endobronchial tuberculosis and extrinsic obstruction. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA2225/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>Results are expressed in terms of percentage. <bold>Results:</bold> This study reported that broncho-stenosis is predominantly due to anthracofibrosis (40%), followed by broncholith (20%),endobronchial tuberculosis (20%), and external lymphnode compression (20%). Right upper lobe segmental bronchus is most commonly involved, followed by Right Middle Lobe and left upper lobe. Six out of seven patients worked as bore-well drillers. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> Broncho-stenosis is not uncommon in silicosis. This is most commonly seen in bore-well drillers exposed to larger silica dust particles, tends to deposit along medium sized airways.