Loading...
Viewing content for
Viewing content for

Asbestos Related Pleural Disease (ARPD)

No win, no fee* on all compensation claims

Learn more

Asbestos related pleural disease (“ARPD”) is a generic term which covers a number of conditions. Pleural Plaques are technically a form of ARPD.

ARPD is a benign (non-cancerous) condition which in many cases causes respiratory impairment in the form of shortness of breath on exertion. The other types of ARPD are discussed below.

Benign Pleural Effusion

A benign pleural effusion is a build up of fluid in the space between the lung and the chest wall as a consequence of inflammation caused by asbestos fibre.

A benign pleural effusion causes symptoms in most cases. Symptoms include shortness of breath on exertion (due to the fluid compressing the lung and restricting its ability to expand and contract), chest discomfort and in some cases, fever. In some cases where only a small amount of fluid is produced, the benign pleural effusion can be symptomless.

In some cases, the body’s defence mechanisms work so that the fluid drains away naturally and no treatment is required. In other cases, symptoms persist and the fluid has to be drained away by a doctor. If the fluid re-accumulates, a procedure called a talc pleurodesis is performed in which talc is applied to the pleura to fuse it to the chest wall. This prevents the re-accumulation of the fluid.

Diffuse Pleural Thickening

Diffuse pleural thickening is the most common form of ARPD that causes permanent respiratory impairment. Diffuse pleural thickening is the result of a benign pleural effusion.

A benign pleural effusion results in the pleura of the lung thickening and adhering to the chest wall. The result is that the lung is “anchored” to the chest wall at the site of the pleural thickening.

Diffuse pleural thickening covers a much larger area than a Pleural Plaque. Diffuse pleural thickening is usually 5mm thick or more over one quarter of the chest wall.

In most cases, ARPD caused by a benign pleural effusion does not progress. Studies show that about one in five cases progress. That is usually because a further benign pleural effusion occurs after the initial effusion.

What are the symptoms?

When asbestos related pleural disease is significant enough, it can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough, and in some instances, pain.

Types of asbestos related pleural disease that can cause symptoms include:

  • diffuse pleural thickening – a thickening of the lining of the lung, the pleura;
  • benign pleural effusion – a build up of fluid in the pleural cavity;
  • rounded or folding atelectasis – a condition where the pleura folds into the lung, collapsing that area of lung.

The symptoms associated with asbestos related pleural disease can be severe. Asbestos related pleural disease can be significant enough to cause respiratory failure.

Talk to our team

Once you complete the form, here’s what happens next:

Schedule an initial chat

We’ll arrange a time that suits you to speak with one of our lawyers. We can even come to your home or hospital.

Have a conversation about what you need help with

During this no-obligation consultation we’ll listen to your situation and provide initial advice.

Receive our offer

After the consultation, we’ll send you our offer. This will clearly outline your options and let you decide if you’d like to move forward.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

How to contact us

Our team is ready to help

Phone

Mon-Fri from 8am-5pm

13 43 63

Email

Our friendly team is here to help

enquiries@turnerfreeman.com.au

Live Chat

Chat with a team member

Click to start chat