Problems in the pathology of disease caused by asbestos

Abstract

In this paper a brief review is presented of the problems that confront a pathologist who is trying to decide whether or not disease has been caused by asbestos exposure, while carrying out a necropsy, examining specimens for a pneumoconiosis panel, or while trying to reach a decision for a solicitor or insurance company from old reports and histological sections. The final assessment must be based upon the post-mortem findings and histopathology, but often aided by the clinical and occupational notes.