Caplan Syndrome: A Case Report

Caplan syndrome, known as rheumatoid pneumoconiosis, is a combination of silicosis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a very rare condition and is underdiagnosed in our context despite the large number of people exposed to dust. Exposure to silica is a risk factor for various diseases. Our case involves a 39-year-old gold miner who had worked in an artisanal mine for over 20 years. He presented with chronic progressive, additive, bilateral, and symmetrical polyarthritis of the small metacarpophalangeal joints, all proximal interphalangeal joints, and large wrist and knee joints, with relative functional impairment. The clinical picture evolved in a chronic and febrile context. Based on clinical and paraclinical examinations, a diagnosis of Caplan syndrome was made. Due to its rarity, Caplan syndrome can go unnoticed. It is important for clinicians to have an overview of this disease, particularly in patients exposed to silica dust. Management must be multidisciplinary and subject to rigorous follow-up.