Black lung (pneumoconiosis miners, mine workers disease, asthma miners, anthracosis, anthrasilicosis) is a respiratory disease that occurs due to inhalation of coal dust in the long term. Coal workers pneumoconiosis occurs in two forms, namely simplex and complicated (progressive massive fibrosis). Simplex type usually mild, while the complicated types can be fatal.
On simplex black lung, coal dust gathered around the small airways (bronchioles). Even though relatively inert and does not cause much reaction, coal powder will be spread throughout the lungs and is seen as small spots on the chest film.
Coal powder does not clog the airways. But every year, 1-2% of people with black lung simplex, will develop into a more serious form of the disease known as progressive massive fibrosis, characterized by extensive scarring in the lungs (with a diameter of at least 1 cm). Although no longer the case of coal dust exposure, but progressive massive fibrosis would worsen. Scar tissue can cause damage to the tissue and blood vessels of the lungs.
Caplan syndrome is a rare disorder, which can affect coal miners who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Nodules of scar tissue and a large round will develop rapidly in the lungs. Such nodules may also form in people who are exposed to coal dust, even though they do not suffer from black lung.
Cause
Black lung is a result of inhalation of coal dust in the long term. Smoking does not cause increased incidence of black lung, but can provide additional effects that are harmful to the lungs. The risk of suffering from black lung associated with the duration and extent of exposure to coal dust. Most of the affected workers over the age of 50 years. The disease was found in 6 out of 100,000 people.
Symptom
Simplex black lung usually does not cause symptoms. But many people who have chronic cough and shortness of breath easily because they also suffer from emphysema (due to smoking) or bronchitis (because of smoking or exposure to other toxic industrial pollutants). Heavy progressive massive fibrosis also causes coughing and shortness of breath.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis based on the results of a chest X-ray examination and lung function tests.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for this disease, in addition to treating complications (right heart failure or pulmonary tuberculosis). In case of respiratory problems, then given a bronchodilator and expectorant. It is advisable to avoid further exposure.
Prevention
Black lung can be prevented by avoiding coal dust in the working environment. Coal miners must undergo chest examinations every 4-5 years so that the disease can be found at an early stage. If the disease is found, then the worker must be moved to an area where coal dust levels low, to avoid the occurrence of progressive massive fibrosis.
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