Calcified pleural plaques due to asbestos exposure

Case contributed by Stefan Tigges
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Shortness of breath.

Patient Data

Age: 60 years
Gender: Male

Standard & Edge Enhanced CXRs

x-ray

Bilateral calcified pleural plaques are present, including on both hemidiaphragms.

High Resolution CT Scan

ct

Multiple calcified pleural plaques are present, including on both hemidiaphragms, no pleural effusion or pulmonary fibrosis.

Case Discussion

Pleural plaques involving the diaphragm are pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. However, since there is no pulmonary fibrosis, the patient does not have asbestosis.

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