Mesothelioma and pleural plaques are two different asbestos-related diseases<\/a>. Even though they are both caused by asbestos fibers, they have vastly different prognoses.<\/p>\n Pleural plaques are chalk-like accumulations of collagen<\/strong> that form in the lining of the lungs (pleura). They are the most common asbestos-related disease, but are harmless and require no treatment.<\/p>\n In contrast, malignant mesothelioma is a rare and incurable cancer that usually develops in the lining of the lungs or abdomen. The average life expectancy for mesothelioma patients is 12-21 months <\/strong>with treatment.<\/p>\n People with mesothelioma usually experience symptoms that mimic the flu, like fever, fatigue, and fluid buildup in the chest (pleural effusions<\/a>).<\/p>\n