Current RMA Instruments
| Reasonable Hypothesis SOP | 105 of 2022 |
| Balance of Probabilities SOP | 106 of 2022 |
Changes from previous Instruments
ICD Coding
- ICD-10-AM Code: J92.0
Brief description
This is a condition affecting the pleura (the membrane covering the lung and lining the thoracic cavity), manifesting as a flat fibrous thickening which has a border which is sharply circumscribed. ‘Pleural plaques’ are a different clinical entity and diagnosis to ‘diffuse pleural thickening’.
Confirming the diagnosis
This diagnosis is based on radiologist reporting of plain chest X-rays or CT [Computerised tomography] scans or MRI [Magnetic resonance imaging] scan of the chest. In someone with a high body mass index extrapleural fat may mimic pleural plaque on chest X-ray and a CT scan may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
The relevant medical specialist is a respiratory physician.
Additional diagnoses covered by SOP
Asbestos related pleural plaque
Conditions excluded from SOP
- Asbestosis*
- Diffuse pleural thickening – This indicates inflammation from conditions such as: lung infection; trauma with pleural haemorrhage; radiation; pulmonary infarction; lung neoplasia, intentional chemical or surgical pleurodesis and also can occur with asbestos exposure.
- Fibrosing interstitial lung disease*
- Mesothelioma*
* another SOP applies
Clinical onset
Pleural plaques are nearly always asymptomatic and are usually found incidentally on chest X-ray or other chest imaging. Clinical onset will be at the time of diagnosis.
Clinical worsening
The only SOP worsening factor is for inability to obtain appropriate clinical management. Pleural plaques do not require treatment. Management that might alter the course of the condition would be advice to avoid further asbestos exposure.