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Caplan syndrome

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Respiratory system
Respiratory system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Rheumatoid pneumoconiosis

Definition    Return to top

Caplan syndrome is swelling (inflammation) and scarring of the lungs in people with rheumatoid arthritis who have been exposed to mining dust, such as coal, silica, or asbestos.

Causes    Return to top

Caplan syndrome is caused by breathing in mining dust, which causes inflammation and can lead to the development of many small lung bumps (nodules) and mild asthma-like airway disease.

Some people who have been exposed to the dust have severe lung scarring that makes it difficult for their lungs to carry oxygen to the bloodstream (called progressive massive fibrosis). People with rheumatoid arthritis do not seem more likely to have this complication of scarring. Caplan syndrome is very rare in the United States.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Your health care provider will take a detailed medical history that will include questions about your jobs (past and present) and other possible sources of exposure to mining dust. The health care provider will also do a physical exam, paying special attention to the presence of joint and skin disease.

Other tests can include:

Treatment    Return to top

There is no specific treatment for Caplan syndrome.

Support Groups    Return to top

Attending support groups with other people who have similar diseases can help you understand your disease and adjust to its treatment and other lifestyle changes.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Caplan syndrome rarely causes serious breathing trouble or disability, but it can increase the risk for tuberculosis (TB). People who have it should be screened for exposure to TB.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of Caplan syndrome.

Prevention    Return to top

People with rheumatoid arthritis should avoid exposure to hazardous dust.

References    Return to top

Murray J, Nadel J. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2000:1619-1721.

Update Date: 8/10/2007

Updated by: Allen J. Blaivas, DO, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Veteran Affairs, VA New Jersey Health Care System, East Orange, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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