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Asbestos Pleural Plaques

Pleural plaques are a buildup of collagen in the lining of the lungs. This condition is also known as pleural thickening. The plaques are typically caused by asbestos, with a latency period of up to 20-30 years after exposure. Pleural plaques are benign (non-cancerous). However, pleural thickening may sometimes indicate a higher risk for mesothelioma cancer. Learn more about asbestos pleural plaques and when to see a doctor.

Medically reviewed by: Mark Levin, MD

Last updated:

What Are Asbestos-Induced Pleural Plaques?

Pleural plaques are best described as a thickening or hardening of the jelly-like covering around the lungs.

When our lungs get irritated, our immune system develops a protein called collagen at the spot of the irritation. As more collagen builds up, it fills up the space in the lung’s lining (known as the pleura) until there’s so much collagen that it begins to harden.

In the case of pleural plaques, the irritation is usually caused by asbestos fibers that have been inhaled or ingested.

3 Quick Facts About Asbestos and Pleural Plaques
  1. Pleural plaques are a known marker of asbestos exposure.
  2. They are the most common type of asbestos-related disease.
  3. Pleural plaques occur in 50% of people with long-term asbestos exposure.

Unlike plaque buildup in other regions of the body, such as in the heart, pleural plaques are usually harmless. However, the presence of pleural plaques may be an independent risk factor for pleural mesothelioma, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

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Symptoms of Pleural Plaques

Typically, pleural plaques do not cause any symptoms at all. If symptoms are experienced, they are generally mild.

Symptoms of pleural plaques may include excessive coughing and pain while breathing and coughing.

Some researchers believe that significant pleural plaque buildup may also be associated with slightly diminished lung function.

An individual with pleural plaques rarely experiences severe shortness of breath. If shortness of breath is continually present, a medical professional should be consulted to determine if another illness or disease is the cause.

Use our Free Doctor Match to find a specialist who can give you an accurate diagnosis or second opinion.

How Does Asbestos Cause Pleural Plaques?

A chest X-ray shows pleural plaques
Chest X-ray of calcified asbestos pleural plaques

Researchers believe that asbestos exposure is the leading cause of pleural plaques.

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, the body’s immune system attempts to eliminate them. However, asbestos fibers are so strong that the body can’t break them down.

These fibers slowly irritate healthy tissue depending on where they settle. Over time, the body’s immune response to these fibers causes pleural thickening and the hardening of collagen, leading to scar tissue formation.

More About the Pleura

The pleura has two layers. The parietal pleura lines the chest wall and diaphragm. It’s the most common site for the development of pleural plaques. The other layer is the visceral pleura, which lines the inside of the lungs. Although it’s rare, pleural plaques can also form in the visceral pleura.

Who’s at Risk of Developing Pleural Plaques?

In most cases, pleural plaques will develop only after prolonged asbestos exposure. Because of this, those who regularly work in asbestos-heavy jobs are at a higher risk of developing pleural plaques.

People with a higher risk of asbestos exposure include:

  • Boilermakers
  • Construction workers
  • Factory workers
  • Firefighters
  • Industrial workers
  • Miners
  • Military veterans
  • Shipbuilders
  • Steel mill workers
  • Textile mill workers

These workers had a high risk of asbestos exposure before the early 1980s, as this was when widespread restrictions on asbestos began. However, asbestos-related diseases can take 10-50 years to develop after exposure. 

It is also possible to have secondary asbestos exposure, which could happen when a spouse or household member breathed in asbestos fibers when they washed the clothes of a construction worker, for example.

Studies have found that many patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases also have pleural plaques.

Other Possible Causes of Pleural Plaques

A 2019 report from researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai also suggested that talc may contribute to developing asbestos-related pleural plaques. Asbestos has been found in some samples of talc products such as baby powder.

Asbestos Pleural Plaques and Mesothelioma

There is no direct link between the presence of pleural plaques and mesothelioma.

However, there is a direct link between asbestos and pleural plaques as well as mesothelioma cancer. Individuals with prolonged exposure to asbestos are at greater risk of both diseases.

Even if it happened decades ago, asbestos exposure could lead to the development of pleural plaques or mesothelioma today.

Patients who worked in a high-risk occupation for asbestos exposure, such as shipbuilding or construction work — or who have developed pleural plaques — should speak with their doctor about the risk of mesothelioma and what they can do to protect themselves.

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Diagnosis of Asbestos Pleural Plaques

Since pleural plaques usually have no symptoms, a diagnosis typically only comes after an individual visits a doctor for other reasons.

Pleural plaques can be diagnosed through:

  • Biopsies
  • Computed tomography (CT) scans
  • X-rays
Pleural Plaques May Go Unnoticed

Patients can live with pleural plaques for decades without even knowing that they have them, and they likely wouldn’t know unless they had an X-ray or a chest CT scan for another unrelated condition.

Chest X-Ray

Through a chest X-ray, radiologists use electromagnetic waves to take a picture (radiograph) of the chest and chest wall. In an X-ray, a calcified pleural plaque from asbestos will show up as a translucent white deposit on the lungs.

If an asbestos pleural plaque or other strange mass is visible in the pleural space, patients should ask their doctor about their risk of lung cancer or mesothelioma since both of these cancers can be linked to asbestos.

A doctor can best assess a patient’s cancer risk and determine if they require further testing for other asbestos-related diseases.

CT Scan

Through a CT scan, radiologists take a series of high-resolution X-ray images to get a more in-depth look inside the body.

Doctors can use CT scans to find masses on the lungs or pleura, but these imaging scans cannot always determine whether the mass represents cancer or a benign (non-cancerous) pleural plaque.

Biopsy

Doctors take a small mass sample through a biopsy to determine if the tissue is cancerous or benign. A biopsy is the only way to determine a cancer diagnosis, including mesothelioma.

Treatment & Prognosis for Pleural Plaques

In the overwhelming majority of asbestos pleural plaque cases, treatment is not necessary.

People can live with pleural plaques for decades without symptoms and full lives without reduced lung function.

Most doctors believe the pleural plaques are unlikely to progress and impede breathing.

Likewise, the prognosis — or expected health outlook — for patients with pleural plaques is usually favorable.

Although pleural plaques alone do not require any type of treatment, it is vital to remember that a diagnosis could indicate a higher risk factor for other asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma.

Next Steps for Patients With Asbestos Pleural Plaques

While pleural plaques are not dangerous, they could be an early risk factor for more dangerous asbestos diseases.

You should speak with a doctor immediately if you worked a job that exposed you to asbestos. They can help you determine if you have pleural plaques — or another asbestos-related pleural disease — and what treatment options are available to you.

Mesothelioma Hope is also here to answer any questions you have about pleural plaques and mesothelioma.

Our team of nurses and Patient Advocates can:

  • Assess your options for medical treatment
  • Find top mesothelioma doctors in your area
  • See if you can receive financial compensation for your asbestos-related diagnosis

Call (866) 608-8933 now or get our Free Mesothelioma Guide to learn more.

Pleural Plaques FAQs

What are pleural plaques caused by asbestos?

Asbestos-induced pleural plaques are chalky buildups of collagen in the lining of the lungs, which is known as the pleura. Asbestos pleural plaques are benign (non-cancerous) and typically don’t have any symptoms.

Pleural plaques form as the body tries to protect itself from inflammation caused by asbestos fibers that become lodged in the pleura after occupational or secondhand asbestos exposure.

Are pleural plaques asbestosis?

Pleural plaques and asbestosis are both caused by asbestos exposure, but they are not the same thing.

Pleural plaques are areas of thickened tissue on the pleura (the lining of the lungs and chest wall). They are generally considered a marker of past exposure to asbestos but typically do not cause symptoms or reduce lung function.

On the other hand, asbestosis is a more serious condition. It is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue.

Unlike pleural plaques, asbestosis can cause respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.

What is the difference between pleural plaques and asbestos?

Pleural plaques and asbestos are connected but different. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries from the 1930s to the early 1980s due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties.

Asbestos is a known human carcinogen (a substance that causes cancer) that’s linked to serious diseases like mesothelioma cancer, asbestos, and lung cancer.

Pleural plaques, on the other hand, are physical changes that can occur in the pleura, which is the thin membrane surrounding the lungs and lining the chest cavity. These plaques are areas of thickened tissue that may develop after exposure to asbestos. They are harmless on their own but could indicate the risk of developing mesothelioma.

What is the prognosis for pleural plaques?

Pleural plaques themselves are generally considered benign (non-cancerous) and do not affect a person’s overall life expectancy.

However, pleural plaques are considered an indicator of past asbestos exposure. While the plaques themselves are not harmful, the same cannot be said for asbestos exposure.

Asbestos exposure is linked to more serious health conditions, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Therefore, the prognosis for someone with pleural plaques depends on whether they develop any of these associated asbestos-related diseases.

How serious is pleural plaques?

Pleural plaques are not serious, as they do not cause health problems.However, pleural plaques are often a sign that you have been exposed to asbestos.

Those who have accidentally inhaled or ingested asbestos fibers are at risk of a number of serious health problems, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Can pleural plaques turn into mesothelioma?

No. Pleural plaques do not turn into mesothelioma or any cancerous tumor.

However, those with pleural plaques are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma, as pleural plaques are a sign of asbestos exposure.

If you have been exposed to asbestos, even if the exposure took place decades ago, talk with your doctor to determine if you are at risk for other illnesses.

What are the symptoms of a pleural plaque?

Pleural plaques usually don’t cause symptoms, but if they do, they’re usually mild. Common symptoms are occasional coughing, discomfort while breathing, and coughing. Studies suggest that too many pleural plaques may slightly reduce lung function.

It’s rare for someone with pleural plaques to have severe shortness of breath. If you have persistent shortness of breath, it’s best to see a doctor to find out if there’s another underlying illness or disease causing the symptoms.

Dr. Mark LevinReviewed by:Mark Levin, MD

Certified Oncologist and Hematologist

  • Fact-Checked
  • Editor

Mark Levin, MD, has over 30 years of experience in academic and community hematology and oncology. In addition to serving as Chief or Director at four different teaching institutions throughout his life, he is still a practicing clinician, has taught and designed formal education programs, and has authored numerous publications in various fields related to hematology and oncology.

Dr. Mark Levin is an independently paid medical reviewer.

  • Board Certified Oncologist
  • 30+ Years Experience
  • Published Medical Author
Jenna TozziWritten by:

Director of Patient Advocacy

Jenna Tozzi, RN, is the Director of Patient Advocacy at Mesothelioma Hope. With more than 15 years of experience as an adult and pediatric oncology nurse navigator, Jenna provides exceptional guidance and support to mesothelioma patients and their loved ones. Jenna has been featured in Oncology Nursing News and is a member of the Academy of Oncology Nurse & Patient Navigators & the American Nurses Association.

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References
  1. American Academy of Family Physicians. “Asbestos-Related Lung Disease.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.aafp.org/afp/2007/0301/p683.html
  2. American Cancer Society. “Asbestos and Cancer Risk” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/asbestos.html
  3. British Lung Foundation. “Pleural Plaques.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/asbestos-related-conditions/pleural-plaques
  4. British Thoracic Society “Pleural Plaques – Information for Health Care Professionals” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk/document-library/clinical-information/mesothelioma/pleural-plaques-information-for-health-care-professionals/
  5. Electronic Presentation Online System. “Pleural Plaques: Appearances, Mimics and Clinical Implications.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://epos.myesr.org/poster/esr/esti2014/P-0108
  6. IntechOpen. “Cosmetic Talcum Powder as a Causative Factor in the Development of Diseases of the Pleura.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.intechopen.com/books/diseases-of-pleura/cosmetic-talcum-powder-as-a-causative-factor-in-the-development-of-diseases-of-the-pleura
  7. National Cancer Institute. “Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/asbestos/asbestos-fact-sheet
  8. National Center for Biotechnology Information, “Investigating Cancer Risks Related to Asbestos and Other Occupational Carcinogens” Retrieved from February 2, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2078489/
  9. National Institute of Health, “Early Diagnosis of Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma in Prior Asbestos Workers” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00188890
  10. National Library of Medicine. “Asbestos-Related Pleural Plaques: Significance and Associations.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3618841/
  11. National Library of Medicine. “Incidental and Underreported Pleural Plaques at Chest CT: Do Not Miss Them-Asbestos Exposure Still Exists.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5474542/
  12. Oxford Academic “Pleural Plaques and the Risk of Pleural Mesothelioma” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://academic.oup.com/jnci/article/105/4/293/925337
  13. Pairon, J. C., et al. (2013). Pleural plaques and the risk of pleural mesothelioma. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 105(4), 293–301. Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djs513
  14. Science Direct. “Pleura Plaque.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/pleura-plaque
  15. U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration. “Asbestos Risks.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/asbestos/index.html
  16. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Health Effects from Exposure to Asbestos.” Retrieved February 2, 2024, from https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn-about-asbestos#effects
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