Physiologic testing in preventing occupational lung disease.

In summary, although CT scans can demonstrate abnormalities, there are minimal data suggesting that these findings are of physiologic significance. This observation would be similar to the CT detection of unsuspected pleural plaques on routine chest radiographs in workers or others exposed to asbestos fiber who remain clinically asymptomatic with normal lung function. Further radiographic progression and clinical and/or functional impairment would not be generally expected for localized pleural plaques and/or radiographically negative, 0/1, 1/0, or 1/1 asbestosis. Radiographic progression has infrequently been noted following withdrawal from exposure. Understanding of underlying physiologic mechanisms and attention to the meaning of pathologic-physiologic relationships can help improve the utilization of pulmonary function testing for preventing occupational lung disease.