What is pleural calcification?

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Pleural fibrosis and calcification are thickening and stiffening of the pleura (the thin, transparent, two-layered membrane that covers the lungs) that occurs as a result of pleural inflammation or exposure to asbestos. Inflammation or asbestos exposure can cause the pleura to thicken and become stiff.

What causes a Fibrothorax?

The most frequent causes of fibrothorax are hemothorax, tuberculous pleurisy, and complicated parapneumonic effusion/empyema. It can also develop as a result of asbestos exposure, collagen vascular disease, and drug-induced pleuritis (e.g., ergot derivatives), therapeutic pneumothorax, and pleurodesis.

How do you treat Fibrothorax?

Fibrothorax is often treated conservatively with watchful waiting but may require surgery. The outlook is usually good as long as there is no underlying pulmonary fibrosis or complications following surgery. The disease is highly uncommon.

What is Pyothorax?

Pyothorax refers to the presence of inflammatory fluid or pus within the chest cavity, which is the area between the lungs and the inner walls of the ribs.

Can pleural effusion go away by itself?

A minor pleural effusion often goes away on its own. Doctors may need to treat the condition that is causing the pleural effusion. For example, you may get medicines to treat pneumonia or congestive heart failure. When the condition is treated, the effusion usually goes away.

What causes lung calcification?

The formation of calcified granulomas in the lungs is often due to infections. These can be from a bacterial infection, such as tuberculosis (TB). Calcified granulomas can also form from fungal infections such as histoplasmosis or aspergillosis.

What is the pathophysiology of pleural calcification?

Pleural calcification is a common manifestation of asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure initially may cause pleural thickening that can later calcify. Pleural effusions and mesothelioma also may be associated with the exposure. Generally, the first manifestations of asbestos exposure are pleural plaques that later calcify.

What is the treatment for pleural fibrosis and calcification?

Pleural fibrosis and calcification are usually benign sequelae of pleural inflammation or asbestos exposure. These disorders are suspected and diagnosed based on imaging studies. Treatment of fibrosis and calcification themselves is generally unnecessary. Rarely, very large areas of fibrosis require surgical removal.

What is the prevalence of chronic pleural effusion in pleuritic calcification?

Chronic persistent pleural effusions were observed in 22 out of 140 patients with calcification involving the parietal and visceral pleurae.