What is Diffuse Pleural Thickening?
Exposure to asbestos can lead to generalised scarring the pleura, which is the lining of the lungs. This thickening leads to constriction of the lung with consequent loss of lung volume and increasing breathlessness. It can affect one lung or both lungs. It can result in significant disability if it is extensive and affects both lungs. It will generally take 10 years after first exposure to asbestos for it to develop.
