Asbestosis Diagnosis |
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Asbestosis is scarring of the lung tissue that can be caused by asbestos particles that are inhaled into the lungs. The body will respond to the fibers by attacking them that will form fibrosis, a form of scarring. Diagnosis is made from a physical examination by a doctor that can reveal a crackling noise while inhaling and exhaling and from results of a chest x-ray or CT scan.
A medical and environmental history, especially exposure to asbestos is also used as part of the diagnosis. In some cases patients have no recollection of contact with asbestos.
Asbestosis is a respiratory disease. Advanced cases may lead to pulmonary hypertension, or cardiac failure. The earlier asbestosis is diagnosed, the higher a patient's chance of survival.
