Occupational exposure to silica, one of the most common minerals in the earth’s crust, may lead to microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) — a type of ANCA-associated vasculitis — particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition to autoimmune diseases, a case report suggests.

Silica, found in sand and rocks, is known to stimulate inflammatory reactions. In fact, silicosis is an occupational lung disease common among those exposed to the mineral that can cause kidney injury and lead to more autoimmune conditions.

In a recent report, a team of researchers in Turkey detailed the case of a 29-year-old man with kidney dysfunction linked to silica exposure who was diagnosed with MPA associated with silicosis.

“Considering that the use and therefore frequency of exposure to silica is increasing with industrial development, awareness should be raised of not only the pulmonary effects of silicosis but also the renal [kidney] damage,” the researchers wrote.