New German Guideline Standardizes HRCT-Based Assessment of Occupational Silicosis

A new German guideline for silicosis assessment emphasizes low-dose volumetric HRCT over chest X-ray due to poor correlation with symptoms and function, standardizing expert evaluations for occupational disease claims.

• Targeted at medical assessors, insurers, and social courts; provides a structured framework for evaluating quartz dust-related lung disease (Occupational Disease No. 4101).
• Highlights that symptomatology, cardiopulmonary function, and conventional chest radiography have low correlation; details specific HRCT findings in parenchyma, hilum, mediastinum, and lymph nodes with pitfalls.
• Aims to improve consistency and transparency of expert reports; no formal evidence levels or GRADE assessment reported in the source.

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