Silicosis and Role of IL-6

Silica induced lung fibrosis otherwise known as Silicosis. It is irreversible fibrosis of the lungs caused by inhalation of free silica dust. It is estimated that about million of people are working in various types of mines, ceramics, potteries, foundries, metal grinding, stone crushing, agate grinding, slate pencil industry etc., and occupationally exposed to free silica dust and are at potential risk of developing silicosis. Silica induces different kinds of pro-inflammatory cytokines that help in progression of disease. IL-6 is one of the pro-inflammatory cytokines that produce after silica exposure in lung. In the present book silicosis, parthenogenesis of silicosis and role of IL-6 have been discussed.