Scleroderma associated with exposure to silica is termed the Erasmus Syndrome. Absorption of silica can affect the immune system of some individuals more than others.
Clinical features:
(1) exposure to silica, usually occupational
(2) variable evidence of silicosis, with or without pneumconiosis
(3) scleroderma
The patient may develop pulmonary fibrosis with dyspnea as a result of pneumoconiosis and/or scleroderma.
Scleroderma tends to affect women more than men, while the Erasmus syndrome has a reversed gender profile reflecting occupational exposure.
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