High-resolution computed tomography abnormalities in ex-insulators annually exposed to asbestos dust

Background: characterize To the effects of high asbestos exposure during annual periods of insulation.

Method: 170 ex-workers underwent clinical examination, spirometry, standard chest X-rays and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Asbestos exposure was retrospectively assessed for latency, duration, and intensity.

Results: Sixty-six percent of these workers were annually exposed to high concentrations of asbestos dust. Respiratory symptoms were mild. One hundred and nineteen subjects had pleural or pulmonary changes on HRCT, compatible with asbestos exposure. Localized pleural thickening was found in 113 subjects (66.5%); pulmonary nodules or lines in 35 (20.6%). The presence of pleural plaques was linked to intensity of asbestos exposure (P <.01), and length of employment (P <.05). Parenchymal lesions were related to intensity (P <.05) and duration of exposure (P <.05). Lung function of subjects with X-ray changes was not significantly altered.

Conclusions: Annual asbestos exposure led to a high prevalence of pleural plaques and to mild parenchymal anomalies.