Asbestosis

Question 1

Asbestosis: definition

Answer 1

diffuse interstitial lung fibrosis that manifests in patients with pleural plaque disease ≥10 years following exposure to asbestos

Question 2

Asbestosis: diagnosis
1. Hx + exam
2. CXR
3. Pulmonary function tests
4. CT
5. Open lung biopsy

Answer 2

1. Hx of asbestos exposure, typically 20 or more years prior
   Dyspnoea, cough
   Examination: crepitations on auscultation, finger clubbing, cyanosis, reduced chest expansion
2. CXR linear interstitial fibrosis, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, atelectasis
3. Normal or show a restrictive pattern (reduced forced vital capacity (FVC) and total lung capacity (TLC) with a normal FEV1/FVC ratio) or obstructive pattern (reduced FEV1).
4. pleural thickening, pleural plaques
5. If cancer suspected

Question 3

Management of asbestosis

Answer 3

Smoking cessation
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Oxygen therapy if SpO2 ≤89%
Lung transplant
If a death occurs due to asbestosis, this must be reported to the coroner

Question 4

Compensation for asbestosis

Answer 4

Patients who develop asbestos related lung disease following occupational exposure may be eligible to claim compensation.

Question 5

Compensation for asbestosis

Answer 5

Patients who develop asbestos related lung disease following occupational exposure may be eligible to claim compensation.