Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

Implantation and Monitoring by PET/CT of an Orthotopic Model of Human Pleural Mesothelioma in Athymic Mice
Published on: December 21, 2019
[Benign asbestos-related pleuropulmonary diseases]
M Letourneux1, C Paris, P Pommier De Santi
1Service de Médecine du travail et Pathologie professionnelle, CHU Côte de Nacre, Caen, Inserm ERI 3, UFR de Médecine de Caen, France. letourneux-m@chu-caen.fr
Abstract:
Among the non malignant diseases related to asbestos exposure, pleural plaques are the most frequent. Pleural effusion and diffuse pleural thickening, as well as asbestosis, are uncommon nowadays in asbestos-exposed screened populations. Despite the absence of any useful treatment, accurate diagnoses of these diseases are needed for two reasons: on the one hand in order to save patients from anxiety related to diagnostic and prognostic discrepancies, and on the other hand in order to ensure a proper attribution of the high social and financial compensations which are provided in France for asbestos affected patients. CT scan of the thorax is the most sensitive and specific tool for a precise diagnosis of these lesions, but it often displays minute abnormalities which may give rise to major diagnostic discordances, owing to the absence of any tomodensitometric reference in populations proved to be free from any asbestos exposure. There is a need to seek for a suitable standardization of imaging technique and interpretation, for a consensus in the characterization of CTscan abnormalities that warrant compensation, and for a careful medico-psychologic assistance for patients affected by asbestos-related benign diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description
Other Pulmonary Disorders
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Pleural Effusion II: Symptoms and Management
A pleural effusion is the abnormal collection of fluid between the parietal and visceral pleura layers of tissue that form the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. It can occur independently or due to surrounding parenchymal diseases, such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Manifestations:
Atypical Pneumonia