Question
A construction factory worker presents with dyspnoea; the following is the chest X-ray image. What is the suspected cause?
| A. |
Pneumoconiosis
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| B. |
Tuberculosis
|
| C. |
Asbestosis
|
| D. |
Silicosis
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer � C
Explanation
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|
Ans. C. Asbestosis
The X-ray shows irregular opacities and calcification in lower lung fields, which are parietal pleural thickenings i.e Pleural plaques – strongly suggestive of asbestos exposure.
Asbestosis is a diffuse interstitial fibrosing disease of the lung. Characteristic findings include
Irregular or linear opacities – Pleural plaques that are usually first noted in the lower lung fields are the chest radiographic hallmark of asbestosis.
An indistinct heart border or a “ground-glass” appearance in the lung fields may be seen.
Pulmonary function testing in asbestosis reveals a restrictive pattern with a decrease in both lung volumes and diffusing capacity along with mild airflow obstruction (due to peribronchiolar fibrosis).
Lung cancer is the most common asbestos-related cancer
Mesothelioma (pleural and peritoneal) is the most specific asbestos-related cancer
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