Image Based Question – 74847

A worker was working in a factory from the past 20 years t and now presented with pleural thickening and fibrosis. Histopathology of the lesion is shown in below image. Most likely diagnosis is ?

A. Asbestosis

B. Cotton Fiber

C. Coal Worker Pneumoconiosis

D. Silicosis

Correct Answer » A Explanation

Ans. A. Asbestosis

(Ref: Robbins & Cotran,9t’ ed., pg. 691,692)

• In the given microphotograph, there is diffuse interstitial fibrosis with presence of asbestos body.
• In asbestosis, after phagocytosis by macrophages asbestos fibers activate the inflammasome and stimulate the release of proinflammatory factors and fi brogenic mediators.
• Diffuse pulmonary interstitial fibrosis, indistinguishable from diffuse interstitial fibrosis resulting from other causes, except for asbestos bodies which are golden brown, fusiform or beaded rods with a translucent center consisting of asbestos fibers coated with an iron- containing proteinaceous material.