Pleural Effusions

Asbestos is made up of a group of minerals that can be separated into long, thin fibers. These fibers are very strong and can be woven or boring. Asbestos is used in many industrial products because of its durability and ability to withstand heat. Asbestos is actually a naturally occurring mineral that is found on all continents in the world. Although most people believe asbestos was banned in the U.S., this is not true. There are two main types of asbestos, amphibole and chrysotile.

amphibole asbestos has been shown to remain in their lungs longer. It is found in places such as mines and mills in the form of tremolite. Tremolite asbestos can become airborne putting those living near the factories and mines at greater risk for developing diseases associated with asbestos. Amphibole asbestos is also used in building materials and insulation. Asbestos is used in insulation and construction materials, only a danger when it is disturbed, which causes the fibers to be released into the air.

Chrysotile asbestos is the most common type of asbestos and was discovered after the World Trade Center collapse of the 11th September Studies have shown that it is not released in significant amounts, which will lead to health problems. Chrysotile asbestos is generally used in the manufacture of chrysotile-cement, which is used to make pipes and redness.

Special methods such as light microscopy, electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis are needed to measure the amount of asbestos in the air. Typical levels of asbestos in air is 0.00001 to 0.0001 fibers per milliliter. Levels higher than this are known to cause health problems in humans.

asbestos fibers that enter the lungs and remain for a long time because of its strength and can cause serious health problems. Inhaled asbestos fibers can not be removed from pluća.Rizik of lung cancer, mesothelioma and nonmalignant lung and pleural diseases, including asbestosis, pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and pleural effusion increased with exposure to asbestos.

is a longer exposure to asbestos, the greater the risk of developing one or more of these conditions. Most cases of asbestos-related health problems do not develop for at least 15 years after the first exposure, but have developed more than 30 years after exposure. Relationship between gastrointestinal and colorectal cancer in asbestos workers is also being studied, and it seems to be increasing their risk.