Pleural thickening is a lung disease that develops when the lining of the lung, the pleura, becomes thicker and harder over time due to scar tissue.
Causes of pleural thickening
Pleural thickening can be caused by a number of things including infection, pneumonia, inflammation, chest injury and asbestos.
The location of pleural thickening can be a clue as to the cause. Asbestos-related pleural thickening usually occurs in the visceral pleura, this is the inner membrane of the lung that directly covers the lung tissue.
Sometimes pleural thickening might be called diffuse pleural thickening (DPT), this means that the 50% or more of the pleura of one has thickening, or 25% of the pleura of both lungs.
Symptoms of pleural thickening
Every case is different and in the early stages, there may not be any symptoms. As the condition progresses, common symptoms can include chest pain, a persistent cough, shortness of breath, particularly on exertion, and tiredness.
Prognosis for pleural thickening
Pleural thickening is a progressive condition and, as it involves scar tissue, it cannot be reversed. There is no treatment that can cure the condition, but pulmonary rehabilitation can help patients to deal with their symptoms and help with breathlessness.
In severe cases, a pleurectomy and decortication (P/D) might be offered. This is a surgical procedure where the lining of the lung is removed along with the scar tissue.
Thankfully, pleural thickening is not a fatal condition, however, it can be an indication of a more serious issue such as mesothelioma.
How can we help?
If you have been diagnosed with pleural thickening or any other asbestos-related condition, we can help. Contact us today on our freephone number 0800 038 6767. Alternatively, head over to the ‘Contact Us’ page, complete the form and we will be in touch.