Beryllium granuloma (g. berylliosum) is a chronic granulomatous lung disease caused by inhalation of beryllium dust or vapor. Beryllium is a metal that is used in the electronics, aviation and nuclear industries.
Beryllium granuloma develops in 1-5% of people exposed to beryllium. The period from exposure to the onset of symptoms can range from several weeks to several decades.
Main symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, weight loss and general weakness. A chest x-ray reveals nodular shadows in the lung tissue. The diagnosis is confirmed by a lung biopsy, which reveals characteristic granulomatous changes.
Treatment is mainly symptomatic and includes corticosteroids to suppress inflammation. It is also important to prevent further exposure to beryllium. With timely diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis can be relatively favorable.