[Acute silicosis. Clinical, radiologic, functional, and cytologic characteristics of the broncho-alveolar fluids. Observations of 6 cases].

We describe six cases of acute silicosis which were characterised by an intense exposure to pure silica; there was a rapid onset with diffuse abnormalities on the radiological image and severe respiratory abnormalities. The duration of occupational exposure to silica was four to eighteen years. Three patients presented with a cough associated with disabling dyspnoea (stage III and IV).