A Rare Case Report of End Stage Occupational Lung Disease- A Single-Centre Experience From South India

Abstract Byssinosis, also known as "brown lung disease," is a respiratory condition caused by prolonged inhalation of cotton, flax, and other textile fibers. It predominantly affects workers in India's textile industry. Classified as hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), byssinosis manifests symptoms such as chest tightness, cough, and wheezing, particularly on Mondays. While its exact pathogenesis remains unclear, it shares similarities with HP. Although byssinosis can lead to chronic lung diseases, fibrosis is rare, Byssinosis is primarily linked to cotton dust exposure, with prolonged exposure (20-30 years) posing a significant risk [1]. Studies emphasize the importance of preventive measures, such as dust reduction, protective equipment, and rotating workers to minimize exposure. Factors like endotoxin exposure and smoking further affect lung function over time. Effective management of occupational exposure and awareness is crucial for improving byssinosis outcomes. Here we present a case of a female patient for whom, due to progressive fibrosis and respiratory failure, lung transplantation was recommended following multidisciplinary discussions [2].