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Asbestosis

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Alternative Names:

Pulmonary fibrosis - from asbestos exposure; Interstitial pneumonitis - from asbestos exposure

Treatment:

There is no cure available. Stopping further exposure to asbestos is essential. To ease symptoms, postural drainage, chest percussion , and vibration can help remove secretions from the lungs.

The doctor may prescribe aerosol medications to thin secretions. People with this condition may need to receive oxygen by mask or by a plastic piece that fits into the nostrils. Certain patients may require lung transplantation.

Support Groups:

You can ease the stress of this illness by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems. See lung disease - support group .

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends upon the duration and extent of the exposure. Patients who develop malignant mesothelioma have a poor probable outcome, with 75% of those affected dying within 1 year.

Complications:

• Malignant mesothelioma
• Pleural effusion

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you suspect that you've been exposed to asbestos or if you have unexplained symptoms.

References:

Pupavath S, Godwin JD. Imaging of interstitial lung disease. Radiol Clin North Am . May 2005;43:589-599.

Glazer CS, Newman LS. Occupational interstitial lung disease. Chest . September 2004;25:467-478.

English JC, Leslie KO. Pathology of the pleura. Clin Chest Med . June 2006;27:157-180.

• Review Date: 3/1/2007
• Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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