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Calcified pleural plaques

Case contributed by Vikas Shah
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Mild cough.

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Multiple bilateral irregularly shaped dense foci projected over both hemithoraces. No airspace opacification or pleural effusion.

Case Discussion

These are classic findings of asbestos-related pleural plaques. They are asymptomatic and often incidentally discovered after a latent period of ~25 years following asbestos exposure. The thickened edges give rise to the term "holly leaf" sign.

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