REVIEW OF CURRENT AND EMERGING ANTIFIBROTIC THERAPY FOR ASBESTOSIS AND SILICOSIS

Sheeba S., Julliyan Dilleban A.*, Venkateshan N., Naveena B., Filander Kartsan S., Abinaya S. P.

ABSTRACT

Asbestosis and silicosis are progressive occupational lung diseases driven by asbestos fiber and respirable
crystalline silica inhalation, resulting in chronic inflammation and irreversible pulmonary fibrosis. While
prevention and early diagnosis remain paramount due to the lack of curative options, current supportive therapies
offer limited efficacy. This review examines their pathogenesis, immune mechanisms, and management strategies,
with emphasis on antifibrotic agents like pirfenidone and nintedanib, alongside emerging therapies such as PDE4B
inhibitors (e.g., nerandomilast) and stem cell approaches. Recent clinical data suggest slowed fibrosis progression,
but occupational-specific RCTs are needed to optimize safety, efficacy, and biomarkers in high-risk cohorts like
construction workers.

Keywords: Asbestosis; Silicosis; Antifibrotic therapy; Pirfenidone; Nintedanib; Interstitial lung disease.