[A systematic review on the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of accelerated silicosis].

Abstract

Objective: To explore the epidemiological characteristics, imaging findings, pulmonary function changes, dust exposure situations, and treatment outcomes of accelerated silicosis through an analysis of existing literature. Methods: In December 2024, relevant literature from January 1, 1965 to December 15, 2024 was retrieved through the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, VIP Database, EMbase, and PubMed databases. Keywords included "rapidly progressive silicosis" "accelerated silicosis" "subacute silicosis""artificial stone" and related terms. By incorporating, analyzing, and retrieving data from literatures, a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, clinical features, treatment options, and prognosis of fast forward silicosis was conducted. Results: A total of 72 literatures were included, including 23 cohort studies, 28 case reports, 3 case-control studies, and 18 cross-sectional studies. The average age of all 1794 patients was 33.67 years, with an average dust exposure duration of 5.58 years. The primary occupations associated with accelerated silicosis were stone processing, mining, and artificial quartz stone manufacturing. Imaging findings predominantly included small nodules, ground-glass opacities, and massive fibrosis. Antifibrotic treatment at the early stage of the disease could clearly delay disease progression. However, dust concentrations in workplaces were significantly above safety limits, with inadequate protective measures. Conclusion: Accelerated silicosis is characterized by its rapid onset, swift progression, and unfavorable prognosis. However, it has not garnered adequate attention in the present context. Reliable standard and guidelines are urgently needed to guide clinical diagnosis and treatment.