In a patient with a history of coal mining who presents with cancer, what type of lesion is most likely found?

In a patient with a history of coal mining, the type of lesion most likely to be found is coal worker's pneumoconiosis, also known as black lung disease. This condition arises from the inhalation of coal dust, leading to the accumulation of coal macules and nodules within the lungs.

While silicosis and asbestosis can also result from exposure to specific types of dust—silicosis from silica dust and asbestosis from asbestos fibers—these are not directly related to coal mining. Interstitial lung disease is a broader classification that includes various types of lung diseases affecting the interstitium, but it does not specify a link to coal mining.

In summary, considering the patient's occupational history, coal worker's pneumoconiosis is the specific condition that aligns with exposure to coal dust, leading to characteristic lesions in the lungs.