Question:

I plan to take up a job in United Arab Emirates. Upon going for a Chest X ray prior to my taking up the new assignment I was told by my doctor that there is a small scar mark in the left portion which can be interpreted as scar mark (fibrosis).

I do not have a past history of PTB. However the doctor was not sure and advised me to check with a Pulmonologist. I am 43 years old and since the past 15 years I have been working in steel industry and I have been exposed to welding fumes and paint solvents since then.

Can you please tell me whether there are any indications mimicking PTB in the past Or anything else ?

Answer:

Many conditions can cause scars in the lung. Tuberculosis (TB) is one of many types of infections that can cause scars in the lung.

Most isolated scars are not signs of serious problems but it is important to have these scars evaluated by a pulmonologist or other physician experienced in lung disease to determine if additional testing is required.

For more information:

Go to the Pulmonary Fibrosis health topic.