Exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of pleural plaques. Pleural plaque is an asymptomatic condition but will show up on chest x-rays as a thickening of tissue on the ribcage, diaphragm and pleura. After initial exposure to asbestos, it can take as long as 40 years for pleural plaque to develop and because the plaques do not display symptoms. They are often discovered after a patient seeks medical help for another condition.
Pleural plaques are benign; however, it is a sign that a sufferer may be at increased risk from other asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma and other very serious conditions.
It is an employer’s responsibility to maintain a safe working environment and although pleural plaques may not be as serious as some other asbestos related industrial diseases, you should still seek legal advice to ensure that you are aware of the options open to you in the event that you have developed this condition.
Current Legislation on Pleural Plaques
Currently, it is not possible to make an Industrial Disease claim
for compensation for Pleural Plaques due to changes in legislation
in England and Wales. If there are further changes to the legislation
which alters this position, full details will be made available here.