Tobacco smoking worsens the effects of all inhaled mineral dusts, more so with asbestos than with any other particle. Diagnosis
Typical indications on patient assessment include:
Cough
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Chest X-ray may show a characteristic patchy, subpleural, bibasilar interstitial infiltrates or small cystic radiolucencies called honeycombing, particularly in advanced disease.Pneumoconiosis in combination with multiple pulmonary rheumatoid nodules in rheumatoid arthritis patients is known as Caplans syndrome. Epidemiology
The prevalence as of 2021 of pneumoconiosis is around 527,500 cases, with over 60,000 new patients reported globally in 2017. Prevalence has trended somewhat downward since 2015. The mortality of pneumoconiosis patients remained at a high level in recent years, with over 21,000 deaths each year since 2015. It is likely that pneumoconiosis is under-diagnosed and under-reported, especially in countries without highly developed healthcare systems. Treatment and Prognosis
Lung damage due to pneumoconiosis cannot be reversed. However, some steps can slow down disease progression and relieve symptoms. These include the prescription of medications and breathing treatments to open airways and reduce inflammation. Pulmonary rehabilitation and supplemental oxygen may also be recommended. A lung transplant may be needed in cases of serious diseases. If the patient smokes, smoking cessation is also important. Regular testing, such as X-rays or lung function tests, may be indicated to monitor disease progression. Prevention
To reduce the likelihood of developing pneumoconiosis, individuals working in affected industries should wear a mask, wash skin that comes in contact with dust, remove dust from clothing and wash the face and hands before eating or drinking.
Both organization recognise the need for further research about Ayres Sensory Integration and related approaches. In the USA this important to increase insurance coverage for related therapies. AOTA and RCOT have made efforts to educate the public about sensory Integration and related approaches. AOTAs practice guidelines and RCOTs informed view "Sensory Integration and sensory-based interventions" currently support the use of sensory integration therapy and interprofessional education and collaboration in order to optimize treatment for those with sensory integration and processing difficulties. The AOTA provides several resources pertaining to sensory integration therapy, some of which includes a fact sheet, new research, and continuing education opportunities. Controversy
There are concerns regarding the validity of the diagnosis. SPD is not included in the DSM-5 or ICD-10, the most widely used diagnostic sources in healthcare. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in 2012 stated that there is no universally accepted framework for diagnosis and recommends caution against using any "sensory" type therapies unless as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.