Study Syllabus for Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses
DRAFT DOCUMENT
This is a draft document meant for review only. Do not cite this document.
Radiograph Classification
Subset 1
Section 2: Parenchymal Abnormalities
2A. Any Classifiable Parenchymal Abnormalities?

You must check “YES” or “NO”
If “YES”, complete Sections 2B and 2C;
If “NO”, proceed to Section 3A.
2B. Small Opacities

a. Shape/Size (Radiographs #1 to #3)
The various sizes and shapes of small opacities are represented by the letters “p”, “q”, “r”, “s”, “t”, and “u”. Shape-wise, the small opacities may be rounded (“p”, “q”, “r”) or irregular (“s”, “t”, “u”) (In previous classification schemes irregular opacities have been described as “blotchy”, “reticular”, “linear”, network”, and “fibrotic”.) The small opacities associated with asbestos exposure are usually irregular; those associated with exposure to silica are usually rounded; mixed dust exposures (e.g., coal mining) may give either shape.
Page last reviewed: March 19, 2019
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health