UCLA

Key Points: Question: What are the characteristics of patients in California with silicosis from occupational exposure to dust from engineered stone (quartz), a popular material that is high in silica content and that is used to fabricate countertops? Findings: In this case series of 52 patients, the median age was 45 years at diagnosis, and nearly all were Latino immigrant men. Diagnosis was delayed in 58%, with 38% presenting with advanced disease (progressive massive fibrosis), and 19% died. Meaning: In California, silicosis associated with occupational exposure to dust from engineered stone primarily occurred among young Latino immigrant men; many patients presented with severe disease, and some cases were fatal.