Early signs of pneumoconiosis in a dental technician in Italy: a case report

Abstract

Background Dental technicians are at high risk of pneumoconiosis, usually driven by inhalation of mixed dusts, including metals. An etiological diagnosis is not easy to be performed, particularly in advanced stages. Case presentation We describe the case of an early pneumoconiosis occurring in a 47-year-old dental technician who developed respiratory symptoms shortly after beginning work. She described the work environment as dusty and lacking relevant primary prevention tools. A chest CT showed multiple peripheral pseudonodular lesions in both lower lobes; bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial aspirate evidenced numerous macrophages with reflective metal bodies included into the cytoplasm, that at scanning electron microscopy coupled to Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis resulted Zirconium and Aluminum, whereas Tungsten (W) was localized outside cells. End of shift urinary concentrations of W were substantially raised as compared to pre-shift (1.1 vs. 0.2 µg/L). Conclusions We concluded for diagnosis of early work-related pneumoconiosis due to abnormal occupational exposure to metals. The case demonstrates the need also for dental professionals to comply with industrial hygiene standards and to be monitored by occupational health physicians.

Asymptomatic lung nodules in dental professionals: A diagnostic challenge

“…Dental professionals are at risk of inhaling substances such as silica, hard metals, dental alloys, and acrylic resins [ 4 , 7 ]. These substances can accumulate in terminal airways and alveoli, hereby activate inflammatory processes in lung parenchyma, and lead to lung injury and symptoms [ 2 , 8 , 9 ].…”

Knowledge and awareness on pneumoconiosis among dental technicians and senior dental technology students in Saudi Arabia

“…Progressive extensive fibrosis or complex pneumoconiosis can both lead to impaired pulmonary function. [ 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ] In addition to respiratory risks, Dental technicians are susceptible to dermatitis. Due to these negative impacts, it is vitally important to inform dental lab technologists and students about the same.…”

Mixed-dust pneumoconiosis in a dental technician: a multidisciplinary diagnosis case report

“…Furthermore, a recent Italian study reports the appearance of signs and symptoms of MDP in a dental technician after only two years of working in a dental laboratory where ceramic and metal dusts are present [ 24 ].…”