What is primary concern of asbestosis?

The primary concern of asbestosis is the fibrosis of lung tissue. Asbestosis is a type of pneumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers, leading to progressive inflammation and scarring in the lungs. Over time, these fibers cause damage to the lung tissue, resulting in fibrosis, which decreases lung elasticity and impairs respiratory function. This scarring makes it difficult for individuals to breathe and can lead to severe complications, including respiratory failure.

While chronic lung inflammation and exposure to airborne asbestos fibers are significant aspects related to asbestosis, the key pathology and long-term effect is the formation of fibrotic tissue in the lungs. Development of tumors is related to asbestos exposure but is not the primary concern of asbestosis specifically, which is focused more on the lung damage caused by the scarring process.