Asbestosis

Question 1

Cause of Asbestos?

Answer 1

Inhalation of asbestos fibres

Question 2

Which types of Asbestos is the most(+ real name)/least fibrinogenic?

Answer 2

Blue is the worst (Crocidolite)

White is the least fibrinogenic

Question 3

Describe what type of disease this is?

Answer 3

Occupational, Interstitial Lung Disease causing fibrosis

Question 4

Describe the presentation of Asbestosis?

Answer 4

Progressive Dysnpnoea
Clubbing
Fine end inspiratory crackles
Pleural plaques/Effusions

Question 5

If someone has Asbestosis fibres present in their lungs, does this mean they have been exposed?
Does this mean they have asbestosis?

Answer 5

They have been exposed

Doesn’t mean they have developed asbestosis

Question 6

What kind of exposure is needed for Asbestosis?

Answer 6

Heavy Exposure

Question 7

How long does it take for Asbestosis to develop?

Answer 7

At least 10 years

Question 8

Describe the affect of Asbestosis on lung function tests?

Answer 8

Restrictive defect

Question 9

Describe the complications of Asbestosis?

Answer 9

It can go onto become Mesothelioma

Question 10

Describe the development of Mesothelioma?

Answer 10

It can develop up to 40 years after light exposure

Question 11

Describe the prognosis of Mesothelioma?

Answer 11

Fatal

Question 12

Describe the treatment for Asbestosis?

Answer 12

There is no treatment, just symptomatic relief

Question 13

Describe what else (alongside Asbestosis) will cause a massive increase in the risk of lung cancer

Answer 13

Smoking plus Asbestosis causes a huge increase in risk

Question 14

Describe the type of Cancer in Asbestosis?

Answer 14

Mesothelioma

This is a cancer of the covering of the lungs (pleura)