What Are The Types Of Pneumoconiosis?

Black Lung Disease

Black lung disease or CWP is a form of pneumoconiosis that occurs when an individual inhales graphite or coal dust for an extended period. Individuals who have occupations involving loading and stowing coal for storage, milling or mining graphite or coal, manufacturing of carbon black, and manufacturing of carbon electrodes are commonly affected by black lung disease. The lungs of these patients appear black rather than the pink coloring in healthy individuals. A coal macule or combination of macrophages and coal dust commonly develops in the lungs of those with black lung disease. These types of macules progress into coal nodules that are often large enough to stop or hinder the normal flow through the airways in the lungs. A common complication of black lung disease is cor pulmonale or right-sided heart failure. The right side of the heart is responsible for the pumping of blood into an individual's lungs. Because of the scarring and damage caused by black lung disease, the affected individual's heart has to work harder to pump blood through their impaired lungs. While no treatment has been effective for black lung disease, its complications can often be treated.

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