Asbestosis

Asbestosis



Table of content
 Overview
 Pathophysiology
 Causes
 Risk factors
 Incidence
 Complications
 Assessment
 Diagnostic test results
 Imaging
 Treatment
 Medication
 Procedures
 Surgery
 Nursing considerations
 Monitoring
 Associated Nursing procedures
 Patient teaching
 Discharge planning


,Asbestosis




2

, Overview

 Lung disease characterised by diffuse interstitial pulmonary
fibrosis resulting from working or living in areas with prolonged
exposure to airborne asbestos particles

 Possibly developing 15 to 20 years after regular exposure to
asbestos ceases

 Severity dependent on length of exposure and amount of asbestos
inhaled

 Development of pleural plaques and mesotheliomas of the pleura
and the peritoneum

 Also known as asbestos pneumoconiosis




Pathophysiology

 Asbestos is a mineral fibre that when inhaled travels down the
airway and penetrates respiratory bronchioles and alveolar walls.

 Mucus production and goblet cell formation are stimulated to
protect the airway and aid in expectoration.

 Fibres are engulfed by macrophages, which release inflammatory
mediators, leading to fibroblast proliferation.

 Fibres become encased in a brown, iron-rich, protein-like sheath
called asbestosis bodies.



3