Which radiological finding is the most specific marker of past asbestos exposure?
- A Diffuse pleural thickening obliterating the costophrenic angle
- B Calcified pleural plaques along the diaphragm and lateral chest wall ✓
- C Rounded atelectasis with a comet-tail sign
- D Basal subpleural reticular opacities on HRCT
Correct answer: B. Calcified pleural plaques along the diaphragm and lateral chest wall
Explanation
Discrete calcified pleural plaques on the parietal pleura, especially over the diaphragm and lower lateral chest wall, are the hallmark and most specific indicator of asbestos exposure, appearing 20 to 30 years after contact. Diffuse pleural thickening, rounded atelectasis, and asbestotic fibrosis all occur with other causes of pleural injury or interstitial disease and are therefore less specific. Plaques themselves are benign markers, not premalignant lesions.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.