10th January 2024

Background

In addition to the common forms of pleural disease discussed above, there are some less common forms of pleural disease to consider: pleural plaques and mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelial cells within the pleura). Both conditions typically occur following exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring fibre composed of hydrated magnesium silicates. Asbestos exposure also has the ability to cause interstitial lung changes, termed asbestosis.

Asbestos was a fibre used commonly in many industries up until around the 1970s. It was subsequently banned in the UK in 1999. It was mainly used in construction and insulation, and patients who have worked within the following vocations may be at risk of previous asbestos exposure:

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Boilermakers
• Welders
• Insulation workers

The development of pleural changes is a hallmark of asbestos exposure.