Asbestosis
Submitted by GPH on Mon, 2010-10-18 12:40
Asbestosis
The patient presented for an unrelated reason, yet his chest XR was quite interesting.
Multiple pleural plaques were noted, likely related to previous asbestos exposure. The patient was employed as pipe fitter for many years prior to 1975.
Considering the abnormal chest XR, underlying malignancy (related or unrelated to asbestos exposure) could not be ruled out. PET scan was performed and no evidence of malignancy was noted.
The patient was complaining on chest discomfort and dry cough likely attributed to asbestosis.
Mon, 2011-02-07 04:04
#2
Proving asbestos exposure, as shown within this case can often be difficult to discern. This can be problematic, especially when certain medical/legal action requires diagnosis, before action is undertaken. A really unfortunate illness!
Agree.
Thank you for your comment.