Immunology and asbestos.

A population exposed to asbestos while working in a dockyard has been studied longitudinally. Immunological tests using markers for subsets of lymphocytes and monocytes were employed. Evidence is presented that suggests that those with progressing pulmonary fibrosis may be pinpointed. From animal experimental work in relation to mesothelioma, it is suggested that macrophages may play a role in the control of this tumour.