Malignant mesothelioma: Epidemiology

Primary malignant neoplasms of the pleura and peritoneum originate from the mesothelial cells that line the respective cavities. The majority of these tumors are mesotheliomas. Mesothelioma is a relatively rare but very severe neoplasm, Exposure to asbestos (primarily on the workplace) is the main cause of mesothelioma. All types of asbestos fibers cause mesothelioma, but the potency of amphiboles is greater than that of chrysotile. The main determinant of mesothelioma risk is time since first asbestos exposure; duration and level of exposure play a minorrole. © Springer-Verlag London 2014