Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Radio-diagnosis

The inhalation of asbestos fibers may lead to a number of respiratory diseases, including benign pleural effusion, pleu»ral plaques, asbestosis, lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma. Although exposure is now regulated, patients con»tinue to present with these diseases because of the long latent period between exposure and clinical disease. With its ability to show lung abnormalities not appreciated on conventional radiographs, MDCT is considerably more sensitive than conventional radiography in the detection of asbestosis, especially in early or mild disease. Common MDCT scan findings in early asbestosis are intralobular, small, rounded or branching opacities; thickened interlobular septa; subpleural curvilinear lines; and parenchymal bands. The interlobular septal lines typically represent fibrosis. With progression of disease, honeycombing is seen

Issued also as CD