Occupational Lung Disease - Asbestosis Flashcards
1
Q
what is asbestos?
A
a highly heat, acidic & alkaline resistant mixture of silicates of iron, magnesium, nickel and magnesium.
2
Q
what was asbestos commonly used in?
A
- roofing
- insulation
- fireproofing
3
Q
what is asbestosis?
A
fibrosis of the lungs caused by asbestos dust
4
Q
what are the symptoms of asbestosis?
A
- breathlessness
- finger clubbing
5
Q
what would you find on examination in somebody with asbestosis?
A
- bilateral basal end - inspiratory crackles
6
Q
what would you find on a high resolution CT scan?
A
fibrosis
7
Q
what treatment is available to treat silicosis?
A
- corticosteroids are prescribed
- but there is no known treatment that alters the progression of the disease
