Medicolegal Aspects of Asbestos II — Benign Pleural and Lung Diseases

Abstract

A variety of benign lesions affecting the pleura and/or lung can result from inhaling asbestos fibers. Establishing the presence or absence of these entities often plays an important role in the evaluation, presentation and ultimate resolution of asbestos disease litigation. Forensic pathologists may become involved in these cases to address issues of diagnosis, exposure and/or disease attribution. This article reviews medicolegal issues pertaining to benign asbestos-induced diseases of the pleura and lung.