What is Benign or Diffuse Pleural Thickening? (Also known as Pleural Fibrosis).
The pleura is the membrane surrounding the lungs & lining of the rib cage. It is possible for inhaled Asbestos fibres to work their way out to the pleura, causing fibrosis (scarring) & subsequent thickening of the membrane. Diffuse pleural thickening (also known as pleural fibrosis) tends to covers large areas of the lung restricting breathing, leading to shortness of breath. (Pleural Plaques are a form of localised pleural thickening).
Pleural fibrosis develops many years after initial asbestos exposure which is typically short but heavy. Time since the first exposure is the most important association. |
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What are Pleural Plaques & can I claim compensation?
Pleural Plaques are localised areas of pleural thickening (scarring to the outer lining of the lung). This localised scarring leads to calcium deposition & plaque formation. Pleural plaques are the most common condition associated with Asbestos exposure. Pleural plaques are often the only indication of asbestos exposure. However the reverse is not true, the majority of asbestosis & mesothelioma sufferers also show signs of pleural plaques.
In the main pleural plaques are symptomless, usually discovered by chest X-ray and tend not to lead to any further asbestos related conditions, such as Asbestosis, Diffuse Pleural Thickening or Mesothelioma.
Pleural plaques are usually a sign of low intermittent exposure to asbestos.
Claiming for Pleural Plaques is only available if you are a resident of; or previously worked in Scotland. It is not possible to claim for Pleural Plaques in England & Wales. |
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Asbestos Exposure: Who does it affect?
Asbestos may effect anyone in a position or work environment where breathing in of asbestos fibres could have been an issue. Such as those who worked extensively with asbestos (e.g. repairing boilers, demolishing buildings, and asbestos removal workers), or even those who have lived close to asbestos factories.
Further information on: Asbestos & Asbestos related disease from the Health & Safety Executive. |
What should I do if I am suffering from Pleural Thickening or Pleural Plaques?
- The first step if you are suffering from an Pleural Thickening or Pleural Plaques (Scotland Only) would be to contact us so we can assess your claim for compensation and advise you on whether you will be eligible to claim.
- It is vital to establish a relationship between your symptoms and possible exposure to asbestos. If you have not done so already the second step will be to see your doctor who will be able to establish a link to asbestos.
- Breathlessness and crackling of the lungs are key symptoms of Asbestos related lung diseases. To confirm Lung function tests will probably be performed alongside a CT scan, chest X-ray or biopsy if Mesothelioma is expected.
- Further to this any medical(s) instigated by our solicitors will cost you nothing, they will be paid for by the solicitor and claimed back as a disbursement from the other side.
