Epidemiology of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare but very severe neoplasm that affects primarily the pleura and the peritoneum, and very rarely also the pericardium, the tunica vaginalis of the testis and the ovary. An increased risk of mesothelioma has been demonstrated in many occupational groups exposed to asbestos, with higher risk for exposure to amphiboles such as crocidolite and amosite than to chrysotile.