silicosis

sil·i·co·sis

noun \ˌsi-lə-ˈkō-səs\

Definition of SILICOSIS

: pneumoconiosis characterized by massive fibrosis of the lungs resulting in shortness of breath and caused by prolonged inhalation of silica dusts

— sil·i·cot·ic \-ˈkä-tik\ adjective or noun

Origin of SILICOSIS

New Latin, from silica + -osis

First Known Use: 1881

Rhymes with SILICOSIS

brucellosis, cyanosis, dermatosis, diagnosis, halitosis, heterosis, keratosis, psittacosis, scoliosis, symbiosis

sil·i·co·sis

noun \ˌsil-ə-ˈkō-səs\   (Medical Dictionary)

plural ; sil·i·co·ses \-ˌsēz\ (audio pronunciation)

Medical Definition of SILICOSIS

: pneumoconiosis characterized by massive fibrosis of the lungs resulting in shortness of breath and caused by prolonged inhalation of silica dusts—compare black lung, pneumoconiosis

silicosis

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Common pneumoconiosis caused by long-term inhalation of silica mineral dust. Known since the 18th century, it usually occurs after 10–20 years of exposure in jobs such as mining, stonecutting, grinding, or polishing. The smallest particles do the most damage, killing macrophages (see reticuloendothelial system) that engulf them in the pulmonary alveoli. Dead cells accumulate, forming fibrous masses that reduce lung elasticity. Decreased lung volume and poor gas exchange lead to shortness of breath and then to coughing, difficulty in breathing, and weakness. Patients are vulnerable to tuberculosis, emphysema, and pneumonia. In the absence of effective treatment, control of silicosis depends on prevention with face masks, proper ventilation, and X-ray monitoring of workers' lungs.