Asbestos related lung disease

Question 1

What is asbestosis

Answer 1

chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibres- leads to scarring and stiffening of lungs

diffuse interstitial fibrosis

Question 2

How long post exposure does it usually take for symptoms to appear

Answer 2

latent period is around 15-30 years

Question 3

What are some complications of asbestosis

Answer 3

can increase risk of lung cancer and mesothelioma

Blue asbestos is most dangerous form leading to this

Question 4

What may someone with asbestosis present with

Answer 4

history of exposure to asbestos - working in mining,construction or shipbuilding

dry cough
dyspnea on exertion
chest tightness/pain
fatigue

bibasilar end-inspiratory crackles

clubbing

Question 5

What investigation is gold standard

Answer 5

HRCT of chest - more sensitive and specific and can detect early stages of disease

CXR- will show bilateral interstitial fibrosis or pleural thickening

Question 6

What other investigations can be carried out

Answer 6

PFTs may show restrictive lung disease with decreased lung volumes and impaired gas exchange

Bronchoscopy - rule out other causes

Question 7

What is management for asbestosis

Answer 7

no cure- supportive treatment

SMOKING CESSATION

O2 therapy if hypoxemia is present

Pulmonary rehabilitation

Vaccines against influenza and pneumococcus to reduce risk of resp infections