Exudative Pleurisy Related to Asbestos Exposure

This can occur suddenly in asbestos-exposed persons.

It can be of any magnitude, but can amount to up to two liters.

Despite this, the patients are often free of symptoms, and the condition can be a surprise finding at X-ray.

The exudate usually persists for some months and can recur after drainage; however, within a year the exudate is usually resolved.

Recurrences can occur, either on the same or on the other side. Residually, a diffuse thickening of the pleura or a rounded sinus may be observed, but often the exudate will disappear without trace.

Any middle -aged or elderly man with acute or subacute pleurisy should be suspected of having been exposed to asbestos.

The diagnosis of asbestos pleurisy is at present based on the history of exposure and the absence of another etiology.