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Asbestosis

Case contributed by Hani Makky Al Salam
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Occupational exposure

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Multiple bilateral opacifications, likely pleural.

ct

Extensive bilateral calcified and non-calcified pleural plaques associated with mild lung fibrosis. Together this is consistent with asbestosis. Left lower lobe round atelectasis in association with large plaque along the diaphragmatic surface.

Case Discussion

Pleural plaques form secondary to chronic asbestos exposure but do not cause symptoms. Pleural plaques are seen in several conditions, however diaphragmatic plaques are said to be pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. Asbestosis represents the fibrotic lung disease occurring secondary to chronic asbestos exposure. 

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