What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Pleural Effusion due to Asbestos

What is Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion? (Definition/Background Information)

• Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion occurs due to the presence of asbestos particles in the lungs, leading to an accumulation of fluid within the pleural space (space present between the lung and the chest wall)
• Asbestos is a carcinogenic fibrous mineral silicate that is used in a variety of industries. They break into small particles that enter the body by inhalation. These harmful particles move into the lungs, causing changes to the normal morphology of the cells and resulting in fluid accumulation in the area
• The lung is surrounded by a double-layered protective membrane called the pleura. These layers are usually aligned next to each other with a small space in between called the pleural space. One layer lines the lung while the other lines the chest wall
• The pleura space contains small amounts of fluid, which allows it to slide easily when inhaling and exhaling air. When there is collection of fluid in this area, it becomes harmful to the lung and this condition is called pleural effusion
• There are different forms of fluids, which can collect in the pleural space. It could be a clear fluid, blood, or pus
• Individuals (usually industrial and factory workers) with Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion usually present with dry cough and shortness of breath. Severe exposure may affect the lungs and heart leading to complications such as lung tumor or pulmonary hypertension
• The prognosis of Pleural Effusion due to Asbestos depends upon the extent of lung involvement, but with proper treatment and the use of safety precautions to prevent further exposure, it is generally good

Who gets Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion is most commonly found in individuals who are exposed to asbestos. It is generally present among adults who work in an industrial environment where they come into contact with asbestos
• Current research has not demonstrated the condition being more common among a particular gender, a specific race or ethnic group

What are the Risk Factors for Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion? (Predisposing Factors)

Risk factors for Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion are:

• Previous exposure to asbestos: Current studies show that many years of exposure to asbestos is required in order for the condition to develop
• Individuals with damaged lungs (such as a lung infection or compromised lung function due to smoking and cancer) have a higher probability of the condition
• Those with weak immune system are also vulnerable to Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion? (Etiology)

• Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion is caused by exposure to asbestos
• Individuals who have worked in an environment (industry or mine shafts) with high asbestos exposure are at a higher risk of developing it
• Depending on the severity of the exposure, the condition can vary in its presentation, which is acute, mild, or chronic

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion?

The signs and symptoms of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion include:

• Trouble breathing, especially with or after any physical activity
• Pain along the chest area
• Cough with sputum
• Increase in the curvature of the nails (clubbing)

How is Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion may include:

• A proper physical examination along with an evaluation of medical history and occupation-related history
• The main focus of the physical examination is on the chest region. The physician will listen for abnormal sounds with a stethoscope (auscultation)

For further confirmation of the diagnosis, certain tests may be ordered:

• Chest X-ray
• CT scan of the chest
• Thoracentesis: It is a procedure conducted with a needle placed into the ribs to obtain a sample of the fluid found within the region. This helps identify the type (and composition) of fluid present within the pleural space

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion?

The possible complications associated with Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion include:

• Pulmonary hypertension: High blood pressure in the pulmonary (lung) vessels
• Cancer of the lung
• Pleural mesothelioma (a type of pleural tumor)
• Heart-related abnormalities

How is Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion Treated?

There is no specific treatment for Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion. Avoiding further exposure to asbestos is highly recommended.

• The objective of the treatment is to alleviate the symptoms present with the condition and to ease the patient from further distress
• Sometimes, patients may require oxygen to help with their breathing problem
• Thoracentesis: By this procedure, fluid is aspirated with the help of a needle and is sent to the laboratory for examination. The procedure also provides relief to the patient through the removal of extra fluid
• Depending on the severity of lung damage, some individuals may require a lung transplant

How can Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion be Prevented?

Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion can be prevented if proper industrial safety practices are in place.

• Individuals, who are exposed to asbestos dust particles, should use proper safety measures such as masks to avoid inhaling the harmful asbestos particles
• Individuals, who are smokers or have a prior history of the condition or suffer from other lung diseases, should regularly follow-up with their primary care physician to ensure that their lung functions are normal
• Early detection of exposure to asbestos dust particles can also help prevent Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion

What is the Prognosis of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion depends on how much damage has been caused to the lungs
• If detected early, with proper treatment and proper safety measures to avoid further exposure, the prognosis is good
• However, if the condition has progressed to its chronic form, a lung transplant will be needed. If the lung transplant is successful, then the outcome is typically good

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion:

The American Public Health Association has made an announcement to stop the use of asbestos, as the number of people being affected each year is slowly increasing.