• A form of pneumoconiosis resulting from inhalation of dust containing crystalline form of silicon dioxide, usually in the form of quartz. Amorphous silica is relatively nontoxic.
  • An occupational lung disorder caused by the inhalation of silica dust. It results in the inflammation and scarring of the upper lobes of the lungs. It may be an acute or chronic disorder. In the acute form, patients develop shortness of breath, fever, and cyanosis. In the chronic form patients, develop progressive shortness of breath.