Describe mesothelioma and who would be at the greatest risk for its development.
Mesothelioma is a malignant neoplasm that affects the mesothial surface of pleural and peritoneal cavities, most commonly the lung, but has also been found in the pericardium and tunica vaginalis. It has been linked with asbestos exposure in up to 70 % of the cases and generally presents in people 50 to 70 years old. Asbestos is still used for cement, ceiling and pool tiles, brake lining and ship building so taking a good history is important to establishing the diagnosis.