What Do "pleural Thickening Of Lungs And Plaques With Calcifications" Mean?

CT Chest with Contrast
Findings: Extensive left lung pleural thickening and plaques are seen, with scattered calcifications. Areas of linear parenchymal scarring are also appreciated in the lingula and the left lower lung. 2 adjacent areas of consolidation are seen at the posterior aspect of the left mid to lower lung measuring 2.3 × 1.4 cm and the other 1.2 × 1.2 cm. Bronchi and blood vessels are seen extending towards the lesion, with a pattern that is suggestive of round atelectasis. There is also volume loss of the left lower lobe with retraction of the major fissure. There is an old healed fracture of the left 8th rib, which is slightly superior to the described lesions. 5 cm bulla is seen at the anterolateral aspect of the lingula.

At posterior aspect of the lung apex, a focal area of the pleural thickening and nodularity is seen measuring 2.3 × 2.3 × 1.2 cm. The margins are irregular.

There is no pleural abnormality in the right lung. Right lung parenchyma appears unremarkable. The tracheobronchial tree is patent. 6mm area density is seen at the right posterolateral aspect of the trachea in the upper mediastinum which may be diverticulum. A solid mass with well-defined margins is seen in the left lobe of the thyroid gland measuring 3 × 2.4 × 1.7 cm. There is no mediastinal adenopathy.

I would like to know what does these readings mean. Can you please help me understand these findings?