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Pleural Plaques compensation claims


It is not possible to claim compensation for pleural plaques in England and Wales at the present time. However, in Scotland, The Damages (Asbestos-Related Conditions) (Scotland) Bill enables victims to continue to claim compensation through the courts for pleural plaques, pleural thickening and asbestos-related conditions.



Government Scheme - Pleural Plaques


The government agreed to offer an extra-statutory payment of £5,000 for people with pleural plaques who had begun compensation claim cases before the Law Lords’ ruling in October 2007 which effectively said that, even though caused by exposure to asbestos, pleural plaques is not a condition that sufferers are entitled to claim compensation for. The fund closed its doors to applications in August 2011.


Current legal situation for claiming compensation


On 25 February 2010 the government stated that it will not overturn the October 2007 House of Lords ruling regarding pleural plaques compensation claims. They have however said that if new medical or other significant evidence were to emerge, the government would reassess this situation.


What are Pleural Plaques?


They are the most common injury caused by exposure to asbestos . They appear as a white or yellow thickening on the pleura and are often found to be frequently bilateral (involving both lungs) and symmetric in shape and size. They usually occur particularly on the posterolateral chest wall between the 5th and 8th ribs, over the mediastinal pleura and on the dome of the diaphragm.


Asbestos exposure


This condition typically develops 20-30 years after exposure and appears more commonly if you have had exposure to asbestos heavily or over a long period of time. They develop in, as many as, 50% of asbestos exposed workers, but may also occur after low dose exposures.


Studies indicate that patients with extensive pleural plaques do have restricted lung function. This is often presumed the result of underlying asbestosis that x-rays have not detected.


Diagnosing this medical condition


Unlike pleural thickening, x-rays can easily detect the well defined margins of pleural plaques.


Claiming compensation


If you would like to be added to our pleural plaques compensation database so we can notify you when the legislation regarding compensation changes, please call 0800 634 1626 or complete our online enquiry form.



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