Key Object Page

Pneumoconiosis

This section of a coal miner's lung shows pneumoconiosis, or black lung disease. This condition is caused by inhaling coal dust over a prolonged period. The dust causes inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs and results in scarring that stops them from working properly. This specimen was presented by Robert Christison. In 1831, James Gregory used this specimen to establish the direct link between inhaling coal dust and the condition for the first time.

You can book tickets for the upcoming Cafe Scientifique event here, where we will be discussing the effect air pollution has on the body.