Hyperacute silicosis after bronchoscopy-induced melanoptysis in a lung transplant patient. A first report in literature.

Abstract

Silicosis, a fibrotic lung disease caused by crystalline silica inhalation, presents unique challenges in lung transplantation. This case reports an unprecedented complication in a lung transplant recipient with chronic silicosis. A man in his 60 s, post left single-lung transplantation for silica-induced pneumoconiosis, developed acute respiratory deterioration following routine bronchoscopy. Melanoptysis, followed by imaging showing extensive inflammatory involvement in the transplanted lung, required intubation and prone positioning. This case highlights the potential for residual silicotic material to trigger acute post-transplant complications. It underscores the importance of comprehensive pretransplant evaluation of occupational exposures and heightened awareness of silica-related complications in post-transplant care. The report emphasizes gaps in understanding long-term outcomes and optimal management strategies for lung transplant recipients with silicosis.