Pleural plaques are distinct patches of scar tissue that form on part of the lung (the pleura). They’re a sign that you’ve inhaled asbestos dust or fibres at some point. Over time, they may harden and become calcified pleural plaques.
They don’t cause any symptoms and usually only appear 20 to 30 years after asbestos exposure.
The pleural plaques won’t develop into a more serious condition, but you could be at a higher risk of getting another asbestos-related disease.