Peter Seale · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On the 6th June 2016 I commenced an investigation into the death of Peter Seale.

Mr Seale had an occupational history of asbestos exposure. In 2011 a chest x-ray showed the presence of pleural plaques. The deceased was not told of this diagnosis at the material time. In 2013 he had further chest x-rays as a result of a persistent cough. Whilst the x-rays did not show any changes in relation to the pleural plaques, no further tests were conducted (e.g. CT) despite his history of occupational exposure (to asbestos) and presenting symptoms.

In 2015, the deceased re-presented and was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

Following post mortem examination the cause of death was:

1a) Bronchopneumonia

1b) Bronchogenic adenocarcinoma

1c) Occupational exposure to asbestos

The conclusion at inquest was industrial disease.

1. There is no national guidance in relation to the follow-up and monitoring of patients with pleural plaques. Medical opinion is split on the issue leading to inconsistency of approach. There is a risk that patients will be ‘lost to follow-up’ in cases where action could be taken to afford early/earlier diagnosis/treatment and thus prevent death.