Pleural Effects
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can also lead to four types of non-cancerous abnormalities in the lining of the chest cavity (pleura). These are:
localized deposits of collagen (pleural plaques);
fluid in the pleural space (pleural effusion);
diffuse thickening and fibrosis of the pleura; and
folded lung or rounded atelectasis (a condition which occurs when an area of pleural fibrosis rolls into the lung making a portion of the lung airless).
These pleural abnormalities are found in 10-60% of asbestos workers. Pleural abnormalities are also common in family members of asbestos workers, presumably from exposure to asbestos carried home on work clothes.
In many cases, the development of pleural plaques is not seen for 20 to 30 years after exposure. Pleural effusions (excess fluid between the two membranes that envelop the lungs) usually occur within 10 years after exposure.
Laryngeal Effects
Asbestos exposure has also been found to significantly increase the incidence of laryngitis in a small number of studies.
Immune System Effects
There have been several studies on the effects of asbestos exposure on the immune system. Most studies indicate that immune system function is reduced in workers with asbestosis. It has not been determined if the changes in immune function are the cause or the result of the asbestosis. In workers exposed to asbestos but who have not developed clinical signs of asbestosis, a depressed immune function is mild or no change has been noted.
Asbestos exposure may be a causal factor in the development of a rare condition known as retroperitoneal fibrosis. This condition is the development of a fibrous mass behind the membrane lining the abdominal cavity, which can result in kidney failure. There is a case control study and there are a number of case reports which indicate that asbestos exposure may be an important risk factor for retroperitoneal fibrosis.
What occupations could be exposed to asbestos?
According to the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), asbestos exposure is a concern for the following workplaces and processes:
Mining of asbestos occurring from natural mineral deposits
Processing of asbestos minerals (millers)
Manufacture of asbestos-containing products
Construction industry - disturbing asbestos-containing materials during building renovations or demolitions
Mechanics - vehicle brake and clutch repairs
Marinas - renovating or demolishing ships constructed with asbestos-containing materials
Insulation workers and heating trades
Sheet metal workers, plumbers and pipe fitters
Workers responsible for disposing of asbestos waste, and waste workers
Cement workers
Custodial workers - contact with deteriorating asbestos-containing materials in buildings
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