Asbestosis

Asbestosis

Alternative names
Pulmonary fibrosis - from asbestos exposure; Idiopathic interstitial pneumonitis - from asbestos exposure
Definition
Asbestosis is a respiratory disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause scar tissue (fibrosis) to form inside the lung. Scarred lung tissue does not expand and contract normally. The severity of the disease depends upon the duration of exposure to asbestos and the amount inhaled.
Asbestos fibers were commonly used in construction before 1975. Asbestos exposure occurs in asbestos mining and milling industries, construction, fireproofing, and other industries. In families of asbestos workers, exposure can also occur from particles brought home on the worker's clothing.
Asbestos-related disease includes pleural plaques (calcification), malignant mesothelioma, and pleural effusion. Mesotheliomas may develop 20 to 40 years after exposure.