🌨️ “Snowstorm Appearance” on X-ray 🌨️

When a chest X-ray shows numerous small white spots scattered throughout the lungs, resembling falling snow, it is referred to as a “Snowstorm appearance.”

This radiological finding is most commonly associated with Silicosis.

Question: What condition does a snowstorm appearance on a chest X-ray indicate?

✅ Correct Answer: (d) Silicosis

Silicosis is an occupational lung disease caused by long-term exposure to silica dust (such as stone dust, quarry dust, mining, and sandblasting).

In silicosis:

• Multiple small, rounded nodules develop in the lungs
• The upper lobes are commonly affected
• The chest X-ray shows a characteristic snowstorm-like pattern
• Breathlessness gradually worsens over time

Why are the other options incorrect?

(a) Asbestosis → Typically presents with interstitial fibrosis and pleural plaques, not a classic snowstorm pattern.

(b) Siderosis → Caused by inhalation of iron dust. Although radiological changes may be seen, the typical snowstorm appearance is usually absent.

(c) Anthracosis → Results from coal dust exposure. It leads to black pigmentation in the lungs, but the snowstorm appearance is not a characteristic feature.

✅ Exam Point:
Snowstorm appearance on chest X-ray → Silicosis
(Occupational Lung Disease / Respiratory Pathology)

💚 Exam Objective Nursing – Asha D
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