Complications
Occurs as a consequence of reduced arterial oxygen with the development of pulmonary hypertension. Oxygen therapy is used to prevent and oxygen, diuretics and pulmonary vasodilators are used to treat.
Patients who have developed asbestosis typically have had the highest exposure to asbestos and are at the highest risk of developing lung cancers (of all histologic types).[2]
Asbestos is a carcinogen and individuals with only pleural changes or no radiographic changes but known exposure are also at increased risk.[37]
The risk is greatest in current smokers and is also higher in ex-smokers versus those who have never smoked cigarettes.
The increased risk of lung cancer in nonsmoking asbestos workers is 5.2, in smoking nonasbestos-exposed individuals the risk is 10.8, but in smoking asbestos workers the risk of lung cancer is increased 53-fold.[25]
Lung cancer mortality is increased in individuals with asbestos exposure and is even greater in individuals with asbestosis. The rate ratio is 3.6 in nonsmokers with asbestos exposure, 7.4 in nonsmokers with asbestosis, 10.3 in smokers without asbestos exposure, 14.4 in smokers with asbestos exposure, and 36.8 in smokers with asbestosis.[26]
About 80% of patients with mesothelioma have had occupational exposure to asbestos. Usually has a longer latency period (30-40 years).[2]
Although asbestos is the only known risk factor for mesothelioma, other than a history of radiation therapy, it is still a rare condition and appreciably less common than lung cancer.
Individuals with only pleural changes or no radiographic changes but known exposure are also at increased risk.
Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of colon cancer.[38] After significant asbestos exposure, asbestos fibers can be found throughout the body. The gastrointestinal tract can be exposed to asbestos through expectoration and swallowing of sputum as well as lymphatic drainage.
Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of laryngeal cancer.[39]
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