Comparison of data of respiratory function tests and pulmonary radiology images. Apropos of 106 subjects exposed to asbestos

: We have compared X-ray and lung function data in 106 asbestos workers with diverse, yet most often prolonged and important, exposure times. Based on the international B.I.T. classification, we have found a significant link between VC and type, density, opacity extent and presence of pleural thickening. The same relationship is found with alveolo-arterial ductance. On the whole, however, it is difficult to determine lung function condition with X-ray. Thus, certain criteria concerning function should be considered as well as radiography.