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Caplan syndrome

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Rheumatoid pneumoconiosis

Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for Caplan syndrome.

Support Groups:

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

Expectations (prognosis):

Coal worker's pneumoconiosis uncommonly causes significant breathing difficulty or disability. Persons with Caplan syndrome may be at increased risk for tuberculosis (TB), and should be screened for exposure to TB.

Complications:

• Side effects of medications
• Increased risk for tuberculosis
• Progressive massive fibrosis (scarring)

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms occur that are suggestive of Caplan syndrome.

References:

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

• Review Date: 8/10/2005
• Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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