Chalk

Classification:

Chalk is a white, soft rock and a formation of lime stone. For further details compare to gypsum.

Synonyms/Trade Names:

Lime Stone.

Medical Importance:

Key Hazards:

None.

Involved Organs:

Probably none.

Exposure/Epidemiology:

Chalk is used worldwide in cement industries. For further details compare to gypsum.

Thresholds:

See under the heading gypsum.

Etiology/Pathophysiology:

Chalk is assumed to be inert to the lung parenchyma. Animal experiments failed to demonstrate any fibrogenic potency.

Lung Diseases:

Probably none.

Clinical Presentation:

Associated specific symptoms are not known.

Radiology:

Associated specific findings are not known.

Lung Function:

Usually normal findings.

Bronchoalveolar Lavage:

Usually normal findings.

Pathology:

Gross:

The lungs are of normal color and consistency.

Histology:

The alveoli can contain an increased number of macrophages, and collections of brown dust particles may be seen in the lymphatic tissue.

Prognosis:

Usually good and without serious sequelae.

Additional Diseases:

None.

References:

search Pubmed for Chalk

Kayser K: Analytical Lung Pathology. Springer, Heidelberg, New York (1992)
Worth G, Schiller E: Die Pneumokoniosen. Staufen Verlag, Köln (1954)