Home > Asbestosis

1 Causes and presentation

It is caused by long-term inhalation of asbestos fibers. People with occupational exposure to the mining, manufacturing, handling or removal of asbestos are at risk of developing asbestosis. There is an increased risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma associated with asbestosis. The risk is related to the total dose of asbestos received and the duration of asbestos exposure. Exposure to the crocidolite form of asbestos is the form most associated with mesothelioma among the four forms of asbestos. Mesothelioma usually occurs between 20-40 years after exposure to asbestos and has a very poor prognosis, with most patients dying within 2-4 years of diagnosis.

Inhalation of fibers of asbestos lead to development of alveolar and interstitial pulmonary fibrosis . This leads to reduced lung capacity and compliance, leading to reduced gas transfer.

The primary symptom of asbestosis would be a slow, insidious onset of shortness of breath on exertion. In severe, advanced cases, this may lead to respiratory failure. Cough is not usually a typical symptom unless the patient has concomitant other respiratory tract diseases.

2 Diagnosis

Diagnosis of asbestosis is largely dependent on a good and accurate clinical history taking. Occupational exposure to asbestosis is critical to the diagnosis. Histopathological diagnosis is usually not necessary for patient management but can be used to confirm the diagnosis.

3 Treatment

There is no curative treatment. Close monitoring for mesothelioma is mandated. Oxygen therapy at home is often necessary.

4 History

By 1930 it was recognised that asbestosis could develop after exposure to asbestos. The 1930 Merryweather and Price report to the United Kingdom Parliament is recognised as an important medical report. It included a report on the effects of asbestos dust on the lungs, on dust suppression in industry and it established that asbestosis was a serious disease from which asbestos workers suffered.