Chest x‐ray has low sensitivity to detect silicosis in artificial stone benchtop industry workers

• DOI: 10.1111/resp.14755
• Publication Date: 2024-05-28T01:18:53Z
• Authors: Ryan F. Hoy; Catherine Jones; Katrina Newbigin; Michael J. Abramson; Hayley Barnes; Christina Dimitri...; Samantha Ellis; Deborah C. Glass; Stella M. Gwini; Fiona Hore‐Lacy; Javier Jimenez‐Ma...; Sundeep S. Pasricha; Janu Pirakalathanan; Miranda Siemienowicz; Karen Walker‐Bone; Malcolm R. Sim
• Keywords: Silicosis; Occupational lung disease; Pneumoconiosis

Abstract Background and Objective Chest x‐ray (CXR) remains a core component of health monitoring guidelines for workers at risk exposure to crystalline silica. There has however been lack evidence regarding the sensitivity CXR detect silicosis in artificial stone benchtop industry workers. Methods Paired high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) images were acquired from 110 Blinded clinical diagnosis, each HRCT was independently read by two thoracic radiologists panel seven, accordance with International Labour Office (ILO) methodology Classification Occupational Environmental Respiratory Diseases. Accuracy screening positive (ILO major category 1, 2 or 3) negative 0) CXRs compared identification radiological features on HRCT. Results 27/110 (24.5%) 40/110 (36.4%). Of 83 0), 15 (18.1%) had All 11 ILO 3 In 99 0 1 CXRs, identified 48% (95%CI 29–68) specificity 97% (90–100). Conclusion Compared HRCT, low but high. Reliance would provide false reassurance many workers, delay management underestimate prevalence industry.