Black lung disease preparation
Black lung disease preparation A preparation of a lung affected by black lung disease, caused by the inhalation of carbon Wouter Zaalberg
Each preparation in the Anatomy Room of the University Museum Groningen tells a story about the human body - either healthy or sick. This preparation of a lung shows the effects of pneumoconiosis, or black lung disease.
The causes of a black lung
Black lung disease is caused by inhaling dust particles and occurs, for example, in people who work with sand, metals or asbestos. The body is unable to get rid of the dust particles, causing inflammation of the lungs. The lung in this preparation is affected by coal dust. It is therefore likely that this person used to work in the mining industry.
No cure
Black lung disease is incurable. Fortunately, today’s employees are better protected against inhaling hazardous substances, making black lung disease less common.