Asbestosis is sometimes misdiagnosed as Drug-induced Interstitial Pneumonitis

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Drug-induced Interstitial Pneumonitis, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Asbestosis.

While there is no treatment to repair the lung damage caused by asbestosis, treatment options are aimed at slowing the disease progression and help alleviate associated symptoms. Pulmonary rehabilitation exercises can provide some improvement while supplementary oxygen may be required in some cases. The symptoms of asbestosis are similar to other respiratory conditions making it difficult to diagnose. Imaging tests of the lungs are useful in the diagnosis especially CT scans which can help with early diagnosis. Pulmonary function tests can assess how well the lungs are working.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, dry and crackling sound while inhaling, clubbing, chest tightness or chest pain, loss of appetite

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

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