Pathology of Asbestosis-An Update of the Diagnostic Criteria: Report of the Asbestosis Committee of the College of American Pathologists and Pulmonary Pathology Society

Asbestosis is defined as diffuse pulmonary fibrosis caused by the inhalation of excessive amounts of asbestos fibers. The report proposed a new grading scheme by the College of American Pathologists and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Asbestos Committee in 2010. The updates focused on asbestosis pathological diagnosis and differential diagnosis from other pulmonary fibrotic disorders. Pathological diagnosis criteria of asbestosis:there is an acceptable pattern of alveolar septal fibrosis and an average rate of asbestos bodies of at least 2/cm² of lung. Differential diagnosis:asbestosis should be distinguished from lung diseases associated with silicosis, mixed-dust pneumoconiosis, cigarette smoking and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The aim of this new edition is to define the morphologic features of asbestosis at its various stages, relate exposure levels to specific tissue reactions, and evaluate the grading scheme published in the first report. These guidelines primarily focus on pathologic diagnosis, but clinical, radiologic presentations and epidemiology are also included. Techniques for the assessment of asbestos fiber burden are also evaluated.