Rheumatoid Pneumoconiosis

Rheumatoid pneumoconiosis, also known as Caplan syndrome, is a lung condition that combines exposure to certain mineral dusts with an underlying rheumatic disease.

What happens: In the lungs, nodules appear related both to the inhalation of particles in work environments and to the inflammatory activity of rheumatoid arthritis.

Common symptoms: There may be cough, difficulty breathing, or a feeling of shortness of breath, which add to the joint discomfort of the underlying disease.

Which specialist treats it? The pulmonologist is the professional who evaluates lung conditions linked to exposures and inflammation. With respiratory symptoms in people with an occupational or rheumatic history, a review with this specialist is advisable.