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Pleural plaques — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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EasyPleural DiseasePleural plaquesSCE Respiratory

A 75-year-old retired builder has an incidental chest radiograph showing bilateral calcified pleural plaques. He is asymptomatic, lung function is normal and CT shows no interstitial fibrosis or effusion. What is the most likely underlying cause?

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Correct answer: A — Previous asbestos exposure

Pleural plaques are markers of previous asbestos exposure and are often asymptomatic with preserved lung function. They do not by themselves diagnose asbestosis or mesothelioma. PE, heart failure and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency do not cause typical calcified pleural plaques.

Reference: BTS Statement on Occupational Lung Disease; HSE Asbestos Guidance