Hard-metal pneumoconiosis

Case contributed by Azza Elgendy
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Shortness of breath with decreased respiratory function.

Patient Data

Age: 60 years
Gender: Male
ct

There are multifocal areas of ground-glass opacities involving all lung lobes associated with bibasilar increased reticulations. 

Case Discussion

This case shows the non-specific pattern of interstitial pneumonia and pulmonary fibrosis, due to the inhalation of the hard metal (cobalt or cobalt alloys e.g. tungsten).

Axial HRCT shows patchy ground-glass opacities (lower lobe predominance and mild subpleural reticulation. Calcified mediastinal adenopathy. 

Biopsy shows giant cell interstitial pneumonia.

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