Respiratory1 UKMLA question
Silicosis — UKMLA Revision Notes
Silicosis is an important clinical condition in Respiratory that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Silicosis as outlined in current NICE guidelines.
Key Facts
- Silicosis is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
- Commonly tested in the Respiratory section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
- Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
- NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
- Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios
Investigations
- Chest X-ray
- Spirometry (FEV1/FVC)
- ABG
- CT chest
- Sputum culture
- Peak flow diary
Management
- Smoking cessation advice and support
- Inhaled bronchodilators (SABA/LABA)
- Inhaled corticosteroids if indicated
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Oxygen therapy (target SpO₂ 94–98%)
- Respiratory outpatient follow-up