Occupational lung disease: a case of pulmonary siderosis in a welder worker.

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary siderosis (PS), or welder's lung, is an occupational lung disease caused by chronic inhalation of iron dust or fumes. Unlike other pneumoconioses, it typically follows a benign course without significant fibrosis, though prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory complications.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 44-year-old male welder presented with progressive dyspnea (mMRC grade 3), reduced exercise tolerance, and a history of recurrent chest infections. Diagnostic evaluations, including imaging and pulmonary function tests, were conducted to assess his condition. Findings suggested siderotic lung disease superimposed on welder's pneumoconiosis, with potential systemic iron overload.

CONCLUSION

A thorough occupational history is critical to avoid misdiagnosis in suspected siderosis cases. Clinicians should consider systemic iron overload in affected welders and monitor for potential fibrotic progression. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between iron oxide exposure and lung fibrosis, underscoring the importance of occupational safety measures in high-risk industries.