Computed tomography in pulmonary asbestosis.

Attention is drawn to the signs of asbestosis on computed axial tomography and comparison made with findings in conventional radiology in 36 patients. CT was found to be significantly more sensitive in the detection of both pleural and parenchymal disease apart from thickened fissures. A possible sign of early mesothelioma is mentioned and an encasing variety of pleural thickening described. Perfusion changes which may represent a 'pre-radiological' interstitial fibrosis are discussed.