What is the pathophysiology of pleural mesotheliomas?
One of the major risk factors for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. The disease has a long latency phase and may present 40 years after exposure. The mechanism of action of asbestos causing mesotheliomas is not clearly known but may be related to prolonged exposure of the serous membranes to a foreign body. The fibers may be inhaled or ingested and remain in the body. There are two types of fibers associated with asbestos; Crocidolite, which is the most carcinogenic, and Chrysotile. Tumor growth usually begins in the inferior chest wall. Eventually mesothelioma will grow and encase the chest wall causing lung restriction. Typically mesothelioma does not metastases distantly, but remains confined to the chest cavity.