Lightning Learning: Asbestosis

““Asbestosis is diffuse interstitial fibrosis of the lung as a consequence of exposure to asbestos fibres, resulting in various types of cancer.””

— advice is based on local guidelines & procedures

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STOP!

Asbestosis is diffuse interstitial fibrosis of the lung as a consequence of exposure to asbestos fibres.

Inhalation of these asbestos fibres can cause cancers such as mesothelioma and lung cancer and asbestosis and pleural thickening.

In 2015, 2542 mesothelioma deaths and 467 asbestosis deaths due to past exposures to asbestosis in the UK. Death rates from all asbestosis-related diseases are projected to fall in the next 20 years.

All asbestos-related deaths in the UK must be reported to the coroner.

LOOK

Treatment of chronic patients:

1. Pulmonary Rehabilitation

2. Oxygen Therapy

3. Smoking Cessation

4. Palliative Care Involvement

THERE IS NO CURE FOR ASBESTOSIS

Generally results from an acute exposure from an industrial accident. Ensure staff have appropriate protective clothing on. Isolate patient to a decontamination area. Treat patients injuries as per standard guidance.

Inform local agencies of asbestosis exposure that has occurred.

LEARN

• BMJ: Asbestosis – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
• MedScape: Asbestosis – Background, Etiology & Epidemiology