No fee unless we recover compensation for your family Text size 833-4-ASBESTOS (833-427-2378) Free Case Review

Cancer

Our medical research library holds 56 studies published in Cancer (1950–2021). Each entry links to the study's record on PubMed and, where there is one, to the publisher's page and a free full text. 50 have an abstract, the authors' own summary as PubMed records it: open "Abstract" to read it.

You don't need the product names or old records. No fee unless we recover compensation for your family.

Call 833-4-ASBESTOS Request a review

About the journal

  • Publisher: Wiley
  • Published: 1948 to the present, United States
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 0008-543X (print), 1097-0142 (electronic)
  • Its record in the NLM Catalog

2020s

  • Malignant mesothelioma: Advances in immune checkpoint inhibitor and mesothelin-targeted therapies. Z.I. Hu, A. Ghafoor, M. Sengupta, et al. 2021;127(7):1010-1020. Review PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Malignant mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. For many years, the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved first-line treatment for unresectable mesothelioma was pemetrexed plus cisplatin. However, the recent approval of nivolumab plus ipilimumab as frontline treatment for patients with pleural mesothelioma marks a significant milestone for the treatment of this disease. In this review, the authors describe recent advances in therapeutic strategies for the treatment of patients with advanced, unresectable mesothelioma, highlighting the emerging use of immunotherapy and mesothelin-targeted therapies for the management of malignant mesothelioma.

    © 2021 American Cancer Society.

  • Phase 1 study of the immunotoxin LMB-100 in patients with mesothelioma and other solid tumors expressing mesothelin. R. Hassan, C. Alewine, I. Mian, et al. 2020;126(22):4936-4947. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: LMB-100 is an antibody-toxin conjugate with an antimesothelin Fab linked to a 24-kilodalton portion of Pseudomonas exotoxin A with mutations that decrease immunogenicity. The objective of the current first-in-human phase 1 study was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and safety in patients with advanced solid tumors expressing mesothelin.

    Methods: Cohorts of 1 to 7 patients received intravenous LMB-100 at 7 dose levels from 40 µg/kg to 250 µg/kg intravenously on days 1, 3, and 5 of a 21-day cycle.

    Results: Of the 25 patients accrued, 17 had mesothelioma, 3 each had ovarian or pancreatic cancer, and 2 patients had gastric cancer. Dose-limiting toxicities occurred in 2 of 4 patients treated at a dose of 250 µg/kg (capillary leak syndrome) and in 3 of 7 patients treated at a dose of 170 µg/kg (creatinine increase). The MTD of LMB-100 was 140 µg/kg. Of the 10 patients with mesothelioma who were treated at doses of 170 µg/kg or 140 µg/kg, 8 had stable disease and 2 developed progressive disease. Peak LMB-100 plasma concentrations were dose-dependent during cycle 1. The development of antidrug antibodies decreased LMB-100 blood levels in 8 of 21 patients (38%) who received cycle 2 and 9 of 11 patients (81.8%) who received cycle 3.

    Conclusions: The MTD for single-agent LMB-100 was found to be 140 µg/kg given on a schedule of every other day for 3 doses every 3 weeks. Although less immunogenic than the first-generation antimesothelin immunotoxin SS1P, the majority of patients developed antidrug antibodies after 2 cycles, indicating that LMB-100 has limited antitumor efficacy as a single agent. Phase 2 studies of LMB-100 plus pembrolizumab currently are ongoing for patients with mesothelioma and lung cancer.

    Lay Summary: Mesothelin, a cell surface antigen, is an attractive target for cancer therapy given its limited expression in normal human tissues and high expression in many human cancers. LMB-100 is a recombinant antimesothelin immunotoxin consisting of a humanized antimesothelin antibody fragment fused to a truncated Pseudomonas exotoxin A. In the current study, the authors determined the safety, maximum tolerated dose, and pharmacokinetics of LMB-100, as well as the generation of antidrug antibodies. Ongoing phase 2 clinical trials are evaluating the combination of LMB-100 plus pembrolizumab in patients with treatment-refractory mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer.

    © 2020 American Cancer Society.

2010s

  • Diagnostic value of biopsy sampling in predicting histology in patients with diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma. L.R. Chirieac, Y.P. Hung, W.C. Foo, et al. 2019;125(23):4164-4171. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: The classification of diffuse malignant mesothelioma into epithelioid, biphasic, and sarcomatoid types is based on histologic patterns. The diagnosis is made on biopsies, and because of intratumoral heterogeneity, they may not be representative of the entire tumor. The number and volume of biopsies needed to reach diagnostic accuracy in diffuse malignant mesothelioma and their prognostic value remain unclear.

    Methods: This study examined 759 consecutive patients with pleural diffuse malignant mesothelioma treated by pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy for the presence of epithelioid and/or sarcomatoid histology and classified both the presurgery biopsies (core-needle or thoracoscopic) and surgical resection specimens. The number and volume of biopsies were correlated with pre- and postsurgery histologies and overall survival.

    Results: Diffuse malignant mesothelioma was classified as epithelioid (76%), biphasic (18%), sarcomatoid (5%), or indeterminate (1%) in biopsies and as epithelioid (64%), biphasic (32%), and sarcomatoid (4%) in surgical resection specimens (overall concordance, 80.6%). The positive likelihood ratios were 2.4, 13.6, and 90.1 for biopsies with epithelioid, biphasic, and sarcomatoid histologies, respectively. Concordant histologies between biopsies and resections were associated with a higher number of biopsies (median tissue blocks for concordant histologies vs discordant histologies, 3 vs 2; P < .002) but were less associated with a higher volume (median, 1.2 vs 1.1 cm3 ; P = .06). In a multivariate analysis, overall survival was independently predicted by histology in the resection specimen (P < .0001) but not in the biopsy (P = .09).

    Conclusions: In contrast to epithelioid histology, sarcomatoid histology in biopsies is highly accurate. Despite intratumoral heterogeneity, the accuracy of histologic classification increases with the number of tissue blocks examined, emphasizing the diagnostic value of extensive sampling by presurgery biopsies.

    © 2019 American Cancer Society.

  • Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway genomic alterations in 60,991 diverse solid tumors informs targeted therapy opportunities. S.Z. Millis, D.L. Jardim, L. Albacker, et al. 2019;125(7):1185-1199. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is frequently altered in cancer. This report describes the landscape of PI3K alterations in solid tumors as well as co-alterations serving as potential resistance/attenuation mechanisms.

    Methods: Consecutive samples were analyzed in a commercial Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment-certified laboratory using comprehensive genomic profiling performed by next-generation sequencing (315 genes). The co-alterations evaluated included the Erb-B2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2), ERBB3, ERBB4, RAS, MET proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MET), and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MAP2K) genes as well as tumor protein 53 (TP53), estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), and androgen receptor (AR).

    Results: Alterations in any of 18 PI3K-pathway associated genes were identified in 44% of 60,991 tumors. Although single base and insertions/deletions (indels) were the most frequent alterations, copy number changes and rearrangements were identified in 11% and 0.9% of patients, respectively. Overall, the most frequently altered genes were PIK3 catalytic subunit α (PIK3CA) (13%), phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) (9%), and serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11) (5%). Tumor types that frequently harbored at least 1 PI3K alteration were uterine (77%), cervical (62%), anal (59%), and breast (58%) cancers. Alterations also were discerned frequently in tumors with carcinosarcoma (89%) and squamous cell carcinoma (62%) histologies. Tumors with a greater likelihood of co-occurring PI3K pathway and MAPK pathway alterations included colorectal cancers (odds ratio [OR], 1.64; P < .001), mesotheliomas (OR, 2.67; P = .024), anal cancers (OR, 1.98; P = .03), and nonsquamous head and neck cancers (OR, 2.03; P = .019). The co-occurrence of ESR1 and/or AR alterations with PI3K alterations was statistically significant in bladder, colorectal, uterine, prostate, and unknown primary cancers.

    Conclusions: Comprehensive genomic profiling reveals altered PI3K-related genes in 44% of solid malignancies, including rare disease and histology types. The frequency of alterations and the co-occurrence of resistance pathways vary by tumor type, directly affecting opportunities for targeted therapy.

    © 2018 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.

  • Phase 1 study of the antimesothelin immunotoxin SS1P in combination with pemetrexed and cisplatin for front-line therapy of pleural mesothelioma and correlation of tumor response with serum mesothelin, megakaryocyte potentiating factor, and cancer antigen 125. R. Hassan, E. Sharon, A. Thomas, et al. 2014;120(21):3311-9. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: The primary objective of this study was to determine the safety and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of the antimesothelin immunotoxin SS1(dsFv)PE38 (SS1P) (a recombinant antimesothelin immunotoxin consisting of a murine antimesothelin variable antibody fragment [Fv] linked to PE38, a truncated portion of Pseudomonas exotoxin A) in combination with pemetrexed and cisplatin in chemotherapy-naive patients with advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). Secondary objectives included tumor response, SS1P pharmacokinetics, and serum biomarkers of response.

    Methods: Chemotherapy-naive patients with stage III or IV, unresectable, epithelial or biphasic MPM and normal organ functions were eligible. Pemetrexed (500 mg/m(2) on day 1) and cisplatin (75 mg/m(2) on day 1) were administered every 3 weeks for up to 6 cycles with escalating doses of SS1P administered intravenously on days 1, 3, and 5 during cycles 1 and 2. Tumor response was evaluated every 6 weeks.

    Results: Twenty-four patients received SS1P at 4 dose levels from 25 to 55 mcg/kg. Grade 3 fatigue was dose-limiting in 1 patient at 55 mcg/kg. The MTD of SS1P was established as 45 mcg/kg. Other grade 3 toxicities associated with SS1P included hypoalbuminemia (21%), back pain (13%), and hypotension (8%). Of 20 evaluable patients, 12 (60%) had a partial response, 3 had stable disease, and 5 had progressive disease. Of 13 patients who received the MTD, 10 (77%) had a partial response, 1 had stable disease, and 2 had progressive disease. Objective radiologic responses were associated with significant decreases in serum mesothelin (P=.0030), megakaryocyte potentiating factor (P=.0005), and cancer antigen 125 (P < .0001).

    Conclusions: SS1P given with pemetrexed and cisplatin is safe and well tolerated and exhibits significant antitumor activity in patients with unresectable, advanced pleural mesothelioma. Serum mesothelin, megakaryocyte potentiating factor, and cancer antigen 125 levels correlated with objective tumor responses.

    Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

  • Translational immunotherapeutics: chemoimmunotherapy for malignant pleural mesothelioma. P.S. Adusumilli. 2014;120(21):3268-71. Editorial · Comment PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

  • Aquaporin 1 is an independent prognostic factor in pleural malignant mesothelioma. S.C. Kao, N. Armstrong, B. Condon, et al. 2012;118(11):2952-61. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Background: Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an aggressive cancer of serosal membranes, mostly pleura. It is related to asbestos exposure and its incidence in most industrialized countries is projected to remain stable or to increase until 2020. Prognosis remains poor. Clinical prognostic scoring systems lack precision. No prognostic tissue markers are available. Aquaporin 1 (AQP1) is a cell membrane channel involved in water transport, cell motility, and proliferation. A blocker and an agonist are available.

    Methods: Two independent cohorts of MM were studied. Cohort 1 consisted of 80 consecutive patients who underwent radical surgery (extrapleural pneumonectomy [EPP]). Cohort 2 included 56 conservatively managed patients from another institution. Clinical information was obtained from files. Diagnoses were histologically verified. Immunohistochemical labeling for AQP1 was performed on tumor tissue and the percentage of positive cells was scored.

    Results: We demonstrated expression of AQP1 in normal and neoplastic mesothelium at the apical aspect of the cell, in keeping with a role in water transport. For both cohorts, expression of AQP1 by ≥50% of tumor cells was associated with significantly enhanced survival (9.4 months vs 30.4 months in EPP patients and 5 months vs 15 months in conservatively treated patients). This was independent of established prognostic factors, including histologic subtype, pathologic stage, sex, and age at time of diagnosis.

    Conclusion: Expression of AQP1 correlated significantly with prognosis in MM, irrespective of treatment or established prognostic factors. Immunohistochemical labeling for AQP1 should be included in the routine histopathologic workup. An agonist or blocker may become useful for treatment.

    Copyright © 2011 American Cancer Society.

  • Increased risk of histologically defined cancer subtypes in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals: clues for possible immunosuppression-related or infectious etiology. M.S. Shiels, E.A. Engels. 2012;118(19):4869-76. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: Malignancies that occur in excess among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals may be caused by immunosuppression or infections. Because histologically defined cancer subtypes have not been systematically evaluated, their risk was assessed among people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

    Methods: Analyses included 569,268 people with AIDS from the HIV/AIDS Cancer Match Study, a linkage of 15 US population-based HIV/AIDS and cancer registries during 1980 to 2007. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were estimated to compare cancer risk in people with AIDS to the general population overall, and stratified by age, calendar period (a proxy of changing HIV therapies), and time since onset of AIDS (a proxy of immunosuppression).

    Results: Sixteen individual cancer histologies or histology groupings manifested significantly elevated SIRs. Risks were most elevated for adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (SIR = 11.3), neoplasms of histiocytes and accessory lymphoid cells (SIR = 10.7), giant cell carcinoma (SIR = 7.51), and leukemia not otherwise specified (SIR = 6.69). SIRs ranged from 1.4 to 4.6 for spindle cell carcinoma, bronchioloalveolar adenocarcinoma, adnexal and skin appendage neoplasms, sarcoma not otherwise specified, spindle cell sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, mesothelioma, germ cell tumors, plasma cell tumors, immunoproliferative diseases, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and myeloid leukemias. For several of these cancer subtypes, significant declines in SIRs were observed across calendar periods (consistent with decreasing risk with improved HIV therapies) or increase in SIRs with time since onset of AIDS (ie, prolonged immunosuppression).

    Conclusions: The elevated risk of certain cancer subtypes in people with AIDS may point to an etiologic role of immunosuppression or infection. Future studies are needed to further investigate these associations and evaluate candidate infectious agents.

    Copyright © 2012 American Cancer Society.

  • Activation of the phosphoinositide-3-kinase and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathways are associated with shortened survival in patients with malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. S. Varghese, Z. Chen, D.L. Bartlett, et al. 2011;117(2):361-71. PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare malignancy of the serosal membranes of the abdominal cavity. This cancer is ultimately fatal in almost all afflicted individuals; however, there is marked variability in its clinical behavior: Some patients die rapidly, and others survive for many years. In the current study, the authors investigated the molecular nature of MPM to obtain insights into the heterogeneity of its clinical behavior and to identify new therapeutic targets for intervention.

    Methods: Fresh pretreatment tumor samples were collected from 41 patients with MPM who underwent surgical cytoreduction and received regional intraoperative chemotherapy perfusion. From those samples, gene expression analyses were performed. The major cellular pathways that were identified in this cancer were inhibited using a pathway-specific inhibitor.

    Results: Unsupervised clustering of genes identified 2 distinct groups of patients with significantly different survivals (Group A: median survival, 24 months; Group B: median survival, 69.5 months; P = .035). Phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) and the closely interacting mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathways were overexpressed predominantly in the poor survival group; and the genes of these pathways, phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic, α polypeptide (PIK3CA) and rapamycin-insensitive companion of mammalian target of rapamycin (RICTOR), were highly significantly predictive of shortened patient survival in Group A. The role of these pathways in MPM tumor progression was also investigated by treating 2 MPM cell lines with BEZ235, a dual-class PI3K and mTOR inhibitor, and the authors observed significant inhibition of downstream cell signaling and cell proliferation.

    Conclusions: Taken together, the results from this study revealed that, based on gene expression profiles, there were 2 distinct patient groups with significantly different survival and that targeting the PI3K and mTOR signaling pathways may have significant therapeutic value in patients with MPM.

    Copyright © 2010 American Cancer Society.

2000s

  • A possible association between aprotinin and improved survival after radical surgery for mesothelioma. P.H. Norman, P.F. Thall, R.V. Purugganan, et al. 2009;115(4):833-41. Randomized trial PubMed · Publisher · Free full text

    Abstract

    Background: Aprotinin has been used to decrease blood loss with complicated cardiac surgery but has not been investigated in extrapleural pneumonectomy, an operation that does not use cardiopulmonary bypass. In this prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial, the authors investigated whether aprotinin decreased blood loss in patients who underwent this operation.

    Methods: After appropriate statistical design and institutional review board approval, eligible patients who were scheduled for extrapleural pneumonectomy were randomized to receive either aprotinin or placebo during the operation. Blood loss and survival data were obtained from electronic medical records and surgical databases.

    Results: Of 20 patients who were enrolled, 16 patients met criteria for blood loss analysis. Four patients were excluded from the blood loss analysis: Three patients were inoperable because of tumor spread and underwent limited surgery, and 1 patient died intraoperatively because of acute, massive hemorrhage. The mean blood loss was 769 mL with aprotinin versus 1832 mL with placebo (P = .05; Wilcoxon test). All 20 patients were included in survival analyses. All 9 patients who received placebo died. In contrast, 7 of 11 patients who received aprotinin remained alive at the time of the current report. Kaplan-Meier survival curves differed significantly between the 2 groups (P = .0004). A Bayesian multivariate survival analysis of 18 patients who had complete data available on 8 prognostic variables indicated a posterior probability of .99 that aprotinin was beneficial.

    Conclusions: Aprotinin decreased blood loss. After accounting for covariate effects, there was a significant comparative benefit with aprotinin in postoperative survival. This finding was unexpected and could not be considered conclusive because of the small size of the current study. A confirmatory study may be warranted.

    (c) 2009 American Cancer Society.

  • Video-assisted management of malignant pleural effusion in breast carcinoma. R. Gasparri, F. Leo, G. Veronesi, et al. 2006;106(2):271-6. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Background: Advanced breast carcinoma almost always leads to a malignant pleural effusion, conditioning the performance status of patients and consequently quality of life. The treatment of malignant pleural effusion should be a priority in the management of such patients. The results of video-thoracoscopic approach (VATS) chemical pleurodesis was analyzed in patients with recurrent pleural effusion from breast carcinoma.

    Methods: From October 1998 to June 2004, 71 consecutive patients with breast carcinoma-related pleural effusion were treated by the same thoracic-surgeon team with intracavitary nebulization of 8 g of asbestos-free sterilized talc via VATS. Multiple pleural biopsies were performed to determine biologic characteristics of recurrent disease.

    Results: Talc pleurodesis was performed in all cases, with no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Median length of hospital stay was 5 days (range, 5-8). The overall success rate of the surgical procedure was 89% (confidence interval [CI], 79-95%) with a mean follow-up of 22 months (range, 2-81 mos). The overall survival time was 17 months (range, 2-80). Biopsies showed a switch on receptor status and c-erB-2 status from negative (primary tumor) to positive (pleural metastasis) in 11 (15%) patients. In another 7 (9.8%) patients, we obtained completely new information that was hitherto unknown.

    Conclusion: Talc pleurodesis via VATS is an effective and safe procedure that yields a high rate of success at the first attempt and achieves long-term control of malignant pleural effusion due to breast carcinoma. Concomitant biopsies performed during the VATS procedure were a determining factor in the subsequent decision-making process.

  • Mitogen-activated protein kinase expression and activation does not differentiate benign from malignant mesothelial cells. L. Vintman, S. Nielsen, A. Berner, et al. 2005;103(11):2427-33. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Background: In vitro studies of malignant mesothelioma (MM) cells have suggested activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in response to asbestos exposure. The objective of this study was to investigate protein expression (level) and phosphorylation status (activity) of the extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK), the c-Jun amino-terminal kinase (JNK), and the high-osmolarity glycerol response kinase (p38) in vivo through the analysis of fresh frozen reactive mesothelium (RM) and MM specimens.

    Methods: MAPK levels were analyzed in 36 fresh-frozen MM specimens (32 effusions, 4 biopsies) and in 14 RM specimens (all effusions) using immunoblotting with antibodies detecting the total (pan-) and activated (phospho-) fraction (p-) of ERK, JNK, and p38. Values for pan-MAPK and p-MAPK expression and the p-MAPK/pan-MAPK ratio in MM and RM specimens were compared. Results were corroborated using immunocytochemistry for p-ERK, p-JNK, and p-38 in selected specimens.

    Results: Pan-ERK, pan-JNK, and pan-p38 expression was found frequently in both MM specimens (35 of 36 specimens) and RM specimens (14 of 14 specimens) using immunoblotting, with comparable findings for activated p-p38 (34 of 36 MM specimens, 13 of 14 RM specimens). Activation of p-ERK (27 of 36 MM specimens, 10 of 14 RM specimens) and p-JNK (25 of 36 MM specimens, 10 of 14 RM specimens) was less frequent. Pan-ERK (P = 0.016), pan-JNK (P = 0.004), pan-p38 (P = 0.012), and p-ERK (P = 0.02) expression levels were higher in MM specimens from female patients. Pan-p38 expression levels also were higher in peritoneal MM specimens (P = 0.019). MM and RM showed similar MAPK expression, activation, and activation ratios (Mann-Whitney test; P > 0.05). Immunocytochemistry localized MAPK to MM and RM cells.

    Conclusions: The current results provided the first evidence of in vivo activation of MAPK in clinical MM and RM. The similar values in these two cell types suggest that MAPK may not be involved in the transformation of benign to malignant mesothelium, thus bringing into question the validity of using MAPKs as molecular therapeutic targets in patients with MM.

  • Lung adenocarcinoma and human papillomavirus infection. Y.C. Chen, J.H. Chen, K. Richard, et al. 2004;101(6):1428-36. Review PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Over the past three decades, the incidence of lung adenocarcinoma has increased worldwide. Most individuals with lung adenocarcinoma (especially women) are nonsmokers. Reported risk factors for the development of lung adenocarcinoma include cigarette smoking; exposure to cooking fumes, air pollution, second-hand smoke, asbestos, and radon; nutritional status; genetic susceptibility; immunologic dysfunction; tuberculosis infection; and asthma. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a known risk factor for the development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but it has not been thoroughly assessed as a potential risk factor for the development of pulmonary adenocarcinoma. More than 50% of people are infected with HPV during their lifetimes, either via intrauterine or postnatal infection. Recent studies involving Taiwanese patients have demonstrated a possible association between HPV infection and the risk of developing pulmonary adenocarcinoma. HPV transmission pathways have not yet been conclusively identified. The observation of certain types of HPV in association with cervical and oral SCC raises the possibility of sexual transmission of HPV from the cervix to the oral cavity, with subsequent transmission to the larynx and then to the lung. HPV infection and metaplasia in lung tissue may increase an individual's susceptibility to the tumorigenesis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma. Further epidemiologic and pathologic investigations will be necessary to establish a causal relation.

    Copyright 2004 American Cancer Society.

1990s

  • Changing risk groups for malignant mesothelioma. M. Huncharek. 1992;69(11):2704-11. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Although malignant mesothelioma is a relatively rare tumor, its incidence is rising. Much of the increase is attributable to widespread exposure to asbestos in past decades in asbestos-related industries. In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that mesothelioma risk is no longer confined to workers in the asbestos industry. This article reports a variety of recently identified "risk groups" and highlights the need for increased surveillance of these groups to document the occurrence of asbestos-related malignancy and the institution of measures for disease prevention.

  • Relationship between lung asbestos fiber type and concentration and relative risk of mesothelioma. A case-control study. A.J. Rogers, J. Leigh, G. Berry, et al. 1991;67(7):1912-20. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Lung tissue from 221 definite and probable cases of malignant mesothelioma reported to the Australian Mesothelioma Surveillance Program from January 1980 through December 1985 and from an age-sex frequency matched control series of 359 postmortem cases were examined by light microscopic (LM) and analytical transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis and energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDAX). Concentrations of total fibers (coated and uncoated) (LM), crocidolite, amosite, chrysotile, and unidentified amphibole (TEM) (fibers/g dry lung tissue) were measured. Fiber concentrations less than 10 microns in length and greater than or equal to 10 microns in length were separately quantified. By comparing cases (221) and controls (359 LM, 103 TEM), odds ratios for increasing fiber concentrations compared with less than 15,000 fibers/g (LM) and less than 200,000 fibers/g (TEM) (the respective detection limits) were calculated. Univariate analyses showed statistically significant dose-response relationships between odds ratio and fiber concentration for all fiber concentration measures. The relationship between log(odds ratio) and log(fiber concentration) was linear. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that a model containing crocidolite greater than or equal to 10 microns, amosite less than 10 microns, and chrysotile less than 10 microns as explanatory variables best described the data. The odds ratios for a X10 increase in fiber concentration (fibers/micrograms) were as follows: crocidolite greater than or equal to 10 microns, 29.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.6 to 241); chrysotile less than 10 microns, 15.7 (95% CI, 6.1 to 40); amosite less than 10 microns, 2.3 (95% CI, 1.0 to 5.3). An additive risk model gave similar results. In a subgroup of cases and controls with only chrysotile in the lungs, a significant trend in odds ratio with increasing fiber content was found.

1980s

  • Colon cancer, physical activity, and occupational exposures. A case-control study. M. Fredriksson, N.O. Bengtsson, L. Hardell, et al. 1989;63(9):1838-42. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A case-control study on colon cancer was conducted encompassing 329 cases and 658 controls. Occupations and various exposures were assessed by questionnaires. A decreased risk was found in persons with physically active occupations. This effect was most pronounced in colon descendens and sigmoideum with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.49 whereas no reduced risk was found for right-sided colon cancer. Regarding specific jobs, reduced ORs were found for agricultural, forestry, and saw mill workers and increased OR for railway employees. High-grade exposure to asbestos or to organic solvents gave a two-fold increased risk. Regarding exposure to trichloroethylene in general, a slightly increased risk was found whereas such exposure among dry cleaners gave a seven-fold increase of the risk.

  • Mesothelioma and asbestos fiber type. Evidence from lung tissue analyses. J.C. McDonald, B. Armstrong, B. Case, et al. 1989;63(8):1544-7. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Lung tissue samples from 78 cases from autopsy of mesothelioma in Canada, 1980 through 1984, and from matched referents were examined by optical and analytical transmission electron microscopic study. Concentrations of amosite, crocidolite, and tremolite fibers, and of typical asbestos bodies discriminated sharply between cases and referents. The distributions of chrysotile and anthophyllite/talc fibers and of all other natural and man-made inorganic fibers (greater than or equal to 8 microns) in the two series were quite similar. Relative risk was related to the concentration of long (greater than or equal to 8 microns) amphibole fibers with no additional information provided by shorter fibers. The proportion of long fibers was much higher for amphiboles than chrysotile and, except for chrysotile, systematically higher in cases than referents. Amphibole asbestos fibers could explain most mesothelioma cases in Canada and other inorganic fibers, including chrysotile, very few. Fibrous tremolite, contaminant of many industrial minerals including chrysotile, probably explained most cases in the Quebec mining region and perhaps 20% elsewhere.

  • Acute myelocytic leukemia after exposure to asbestos. T. Kishimoto, T. Ono, K. Okada. 1988;62(4):787-90. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    While the carcinogenicity of asbestos has been established in malignant mesotheliomas and lung cancers, and has recently been suspected in several other types of cancer, asbestos has not been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute leukemias. This article includes two cases of acute myelocytic leukemia in individuals with a long history of exposure to asbestos. Significant numbers of asbestos bodies were detected in specimens of their lungs and bone marrow. In addition, the kind of asbestos in both organs was crocidolite, which is implicated in carcinogenesis. No asbestos bodies were detected in the bone marrow specimens from a control group consisting of ten patients with lung cancer with similar occupational histories. The role of asbestos exposure in the development of leukemia requires further study.

  • Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma after remote abdominal radiation. B. Gilks, C. Hegedus, H. Freeman, et al. 1988;61(10):2019-21. Case report · Review PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Peritoneal mesothelioma in a 61-year-old man, occurred 26 years after abdominal radiotherapy for a testicular seminoma. The patient had no history of asbestos exposure. After asbestos, radiation is the second most frequent defined cause of mesothelioma in North America, but the number of well-documented cases is small; this case represents only the fifth example of peritoneal mesothelioma after therapeutic irradiation of the abdomen.

  • Mesothelioma of childhood. A.E. Fraire, S. Cooper, S.D. Greenberg, et al. 1988;62(4):838-47. Review PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Malignant mesothelioma (MM) of childhood is a rare but important neoplasm. Eighty children with a previous diagnosis of MM were identified. Four of the 80 children had exposure to known risk factors (two had history of exposure to asbestos, one had received radiation therapy, and one had been exposed in utero to isoniazid). Tissue slides were available for independent and joint review by a panel of three pathologists in 22 of the cases. Ten were accepted as MM, nine were reclassified as other malignancies, and three were considered tumors of uncertain nature. Six of the ten children with MM were boys, and four were girls. Eight had pleural tumors, and two had peritoneal tumors. Four died at 7, 8, 18, and 48 months after diagnosis; three remained alive at 19, 20, and 59 months; and three had no follow-up. This review suggests that MM of childhood is a valid entity with a grave prognosis. The tissue diagnosis is difficult and is best made by a panel of pathologists. The available evidence does not support a causal relationship between MM and asbestos, radiation, or isoniazid.

  • Diffuse malignant mesothelioma of pleura. Diagnosis and survival in 92 cases. V.I. Adams, K.K. Unni, J.R. Muhm, et al. 1986;58(7):1540-51. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Clinical, radiographic, surgical, and pathologic findings and survival in 92 patients with diffuse malignant mesothelioma (DMM) of the pleura who were examined at the Mayo Clinic between 1950 and 1980, were studied retrospectively. With the use of defined criteria and ordinary tissue stains, the 92 cases were classified into the following histologic subtypes: purely epithelial, 42 cases; mixed, 29 cases; and sarcomatous, 21 cases. Eight of the sarcomatous cases were desmoplastic. Median survivals were 12, 5, and 3 months for the patients in the epithelial, mixed, and sarcomatous groups, respectively. Survival was significantly longer for patients with epithelial DMM. Women survived longer than men but more often had epithelial DMM. Early disease manifested as multiple discrete pleural nodules, predominantly on the parietal pleura. However, nine patients had a dominant mass. Radiographic signs especially suggestive of DMM were nodular pleural thickening, irregular thickening of interlobar fissures, a dominant mass, or decreased volume of the affected hemithorax.

  • Association of lymphocytic neoplasia and mesothelioma. A.P. Efremidis, J.S. Waxman, A.P. Chahinian. 1985;55(5):1056-9. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Two lymphocytic neoplasms, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and poorly differentiated lymphoma, were detected in two patients who had nonoccupational exposure to asbestos. Both had a pleural mesothelioma subsequent to their initial presentation with lymphocytic neoplasm. Recent reports have suggested a possible association between asbestos exposure and lymphoproliferative neoplasms. Chronic antigenic stimulation by asbestos could predispose one to the immunoproliferative disorders seen in these patients. The possible significance of this relationship is discussed for future consideration.

  • Malignant mesothelioma in British Columbia in 1982. A. Churg. 1985;55(3):672-4. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    All cases newly diagnosed by a pathologist in 1982 in British Columbia as a malignant mesothelioma of the pleura or peritoneum were reviewed. In men there were 17 cases (incidence rate, 17.0/million/year), and in women 2 cases (1.9/million/year). A history of asbestos exposure (largely in shipyards, construction, or insulation work) was obtained for 14 of 15 men, and 0 of 1 woman. Mineralogic analysis of lung on 6 of the men confirmed that the tumor was associated in every instance with exposure to amosite and crocidolite asbestos; some patients also had elevated levels of tremolite asbestos, presumably reflecting exposure to a chrysotile asbestos product. No unusual levels of asbestos were found in the lungs of the one woman studied. These data show that the incidence rate of mesothelioma in British Columbia has increased nearly six times for men compared to the period 1969 to 1975, but has remained roughly unchanged for women. Almost all of the cases in men in this series could be linked to asbestos exposure.

  • Malignant mesothelioma secondary to chronic inflammation and old scars. Two new cases and review of the literature. G. Hillerdal, J. Berg. 1985;55(9):1968-72. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Old scars of the pleura, for example from chronic empyema or therapeutic pneumothorax, can cause a malignant mesothelioma appearing some decades later. The authors describe two cases of primary pleural tumors, which probably had such an etiology. A literature review revealed 20 further cases, the majority of which were squamous cell carcinomas. Whether these tumors developed from metaplastic mesothelium or inplanted cells from the skin is not clear.

  • Malignant pleural mesothelioma following radiotherapy in a 16-year-old boy. K.A. Anderson, W.C. Hurley, B.T. Hurley, et al. 1985;56(2):273-6. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A case of diffuse, epithelioid mesothelioma of the right pleura in a 16-year-old boy is presented. Though a history of previous exposure to asbestos could not be elicited, the patient did receive pulmonary irradiation for metastatic Wilms' tumor at the age of 2 years. The authors believe that the development of his mesothelioma was causally related to his prior radiotherapy.

  • Occupation and lung cancer risk. An analysis by histologic subtypes. J.E. Vena, T.E. Byers, D. Cookfair, et al. 1985;56(4):910-7. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    The relationships between cigarette smoking, occupational exposures, dietary vitamin A and lung cancer is explored in a case-control study. The study is based on 1002 primary lung cancers among white men and 1119 white male controls between 35 and 79 years of age admitted to Roswell Park Memorial Institute from 1957 to 1965. Four hundred sixty-four lung cancer cases were classified as one of the three major histologic cell types: squamous, small cell, or adenocarcinoma. Each of the three main histologic types displayed a statistically significant trend of increasing risk associated with increasing consumption of cigarettes with the strongest relationship being seen for small cell carcinoma (odds ratio for 40+ pack-years = 17.5) and the weakest with adenocarcinoma (odds ratio for 40+ pack-years = 6.7). Increasing risk for squamous cell cancer was seen with increasing duration of exposure to all lung carcinogens, asbestos, and aromatic hydrocarbons. Small cell carcinomas were not associated with any of the occupational exposure categories studied with the exception of asbestos exposure in light smokers. Increasing risk of adenocarcinoma was seen with increasing duration of employment in occupations with potential exposure, but only for light smokers. Dietary vitamin A consumption did not confound the occupational associations. Hypotheses have been generated regarding interplay of risk factors in the etiology of different histologic subtypes of lung cancer. Studies of specific histologic types of lung cancer are needed to elucidate the role of various environmental and occupational risk factors.

  • Ultrastructural diagnosis of epithelial malignant mesothelioma. T.R. Burns, S.D. Greenberg, M.L. Mace, et al. 1985;56(8):2036-40. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Examination of microvilli (MV) by electron microscopy (EM) may help distinguish epithelial malignant mesotheliomas (EMM) from metastatic adenocarcinomas (AC). The goal of this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of microvillous length to width (l/w) measurements of EMM and AC, and to determine if ultrathin sections can be used to accurately assess lengths of villi not completely contained within a single section. Therefore, in addition to the usual ultrathin (600-800 A) sections used for standard transmission EM, thicker (up to 1 mu) sections were also prepared for study by scanning transmission EM. Seven cases of EMM and 3 of AC were analyzed. In each case, length and width were measured for all MV with identifiable bases (18-60 MV/case), using an electronic planimeter, and the mean l/w ratio calculated. The dimensionless l/w ratio is independent of magnification and does not require calibration, facilitating intercase comparison. In the 3 AC, the mean l/w was 5.39, versus 11.44 in the 7 EMM cases. Four EMM were analyzed using both standard ultrathin and thicker sections, disclosing a thin section l/w of 13.34 and a thick section of 12.26, supporting the confidence of measurements made from standard ultrathin sections. Examination of data also showed that equally good separation of EMM from AC could be obtained using the mean ratio of only the 10 longest MV (16.11 versus 8.93). By these techniques, EMM often may be distinguishable from AC, with a l/w ratio twice as large in EMM and a mean l/w greater than 11 supportive of a diagnosis of EMM.

  • Histologic type of lung cancer and asbestos exposure. O. Auerbach, L. Garfinkel, V.R. Parks, et al. 1984;54(12):3017-21. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    The histologic types of lung cancer in 855 patients (747 men and 107 women) from three hospitals and one international study of insulation workers were evaluated. Of these, 196 cases had asbestos exposure. About one half of the cases were diagnosed from surgical slides and one half from autopsy slides. Squamous cell carcinoma constituted the largest percentage of tumor types and was found with the same frequency in exposed and nonexposed groups. Small cell carcinoma was found in 25% of the exposed and in 15% of the nonexposed patients. Upper lung sites were involved in about two thirds of the cases with asbestos exposure and lower lobes in the other one third. There was little difference in histologic type in cases regardless of whether upper or lower lobes were involved. Cigarette smokers who smoked until their cancer diagnosis showed no difference in histologic type by amount smoked, and slight but not statistically significant differences from ex-cigarette smokers.

  • Non-asbestos-related malignant mesothelioma. A review. J.T. Peterson, S.D. Greenberg, P.A. Buffler. 1984;54(5):951-60. Review PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon, but increasingly important, neoplasm. The existing English-language medical literature concerning non-asbestos-related malignant mesotheliomas was reviewed for evidence of other agents associated with the induction of malignant mesothelioma. Both animal and human data were reviewed. In most reviews of malignant mesothelioma, there are a significant proportion of cases without documented asbestos exposure (range, 0% to 87%). Furthermore, there are several fairly well-documented agents other than asbestos that induce malignant mesothelioma in animals, and strong evidence exists that such is the case in man. In reviews of malignant mesothelioma, the percentage of cases with asbestos exposure varies, but a significant number are apparently not asbestos related. It is believed that sufficient evidence exists to suggest that non-asbestos agents can induce malignant mesotheliomas in man, and additional epidemiologic studies in this area are needed.

  • Histologic typing of lung cancer in Louisiana. H. Rothschild, H. Buechner, R. Welsh, et al. 1982;49(9):1874-7. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    To determine whether histologic patterns differed in the high- and low-lung cancer mortality parishes (counties) of Louisiana and whether the findings in the state differed from those in other parts of the United states, we studied the available histopathologic materials for 272 persons of the 815 who died of lung cancer in ten southern, nonurban Louisiana parishes during a seven-year period from 1971-1977. Squamous-cell carcinoma and small-cell anaplastic carcinoma were the most common tumor types, closely followed in frequency by adenocarcinoma, confirming reports by other investigators of a change during the past decade in the prevalence of various histopathologic types of lung cancer. The distribution of histopathologic types was not different for high- and low-mortality parishes but differed significantly from other areas of the U. S. Three persons had diagnoses consistent with pleural mesothelioma. Occupational histories obtained from relatives showed that one of those persons was a homemaker and the other two were sugarcane farmers with no discernable exposure to asbestos.

  • Malignant mesothelioma of the pleura: review of 123 patients. J. Brenner, P.P. Sordillo, G.B. Magill, et al. 1982;49(11):2431-5. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    One-hundred-twenty-three cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma were reviewed. Exposure to asbestos or to other industrial dusts or chemicals was an important etiologic factor with 24% of patients relating such a history. A history of prior irradiation or previous lung disease was also occasionally noted. Diagnosis was most often made by exploratory thoracotomy, with pleural biopsy or cytology rarely helpful. Except for nine patients, tumor was confined to the chest at the time of diagnosis, but in 33 of the remaining 114 patients, spread to the abdomen or distant metastasis was seen during the course of disease. Surgery and radiotherapy were ineffective in preventing local recurrence. There were only three major responses to chemotherapy in 111 trials. Median survival was 12 months, and only seven patients (5.6%) lived more than five years. Patients with epithelial mesothelioma and Stage I disease had the most favorable prognosis.

  • Malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis: report of first case with preoperative diagnosis. L. Japko, A.A. Horta, K. Schreiber, et al. 1982;49(1):119-27. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    The cytologic, histologic and ultrastructural features of a malignant carcinomatous mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis in a 30-year old patient are described. This is the first such case with preoperative diagnosis by cytologic examination of hydrocele fluid and the second with documented history of exposure to asbestos. The identity of the tumor was confirmed by a positive immunoperoxidase reaction directed against mesothelial cells. A review of the previously described ten cases is presented.

  • Occupation and the high risk of lung cancer in Northeast Florida. W.J. Blot, J.E. Davies, L.M. Brown, et al. 1982;50(2):364-71. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A case-control study involving interviews with 321 male patients with lung cancer and 434 controls, or their next of kin, was undertaken to identify reasons for the high lung cancer mortality along the northeast coast of Florida. In Duval county (Jacksonville), the age-adjusted rate for lung cancer, 1970-1975, among white males was the highest of all urban counties in the United States. Increased risks on the order of 40-50% were associated with employment in the shipbuilding, construction, and lumber/wood industries, particularly among workers with reported exposures to asbestos or wood dust. Excess risks were also linked to fishing and forestry occupations, although the numbers of cases involved were small. Occupational factors did not appear to fully account for the area-wide excess of lung cancer, but no evidence was found to implicate smoking habits, migration patterns, or diagnostic and reporting practices as factors responsible for the exceptional mortality rates.

  • Ovarian cancer and talc: a case-control study. D.W. Cramer, W.R. Welch, R.E. Scully, et al. 1982;50(2):372-6. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Opportunities for genital exposure to talc were assessed in 215 white females with epithelial ovarian cancers and in 215 control women from the general population matched by age, race, and residence. Ninety-two (42.8%) cases regularly used talc either as a dusting powder on the perineum or on sanitary napkins compared with 61 (28.4%) controls. Adjusted for parity and menopausal status, this difference yielded a relative risk of 1.92 (P less than 0.003) for ovarian cancer associated with these practices. Women who had regularly engaged in both practices had an adjusted relative risk of 3.28 (P less than 0.001) compared to women with neither exposure. This provides some support for an association between talc and ovarian cancer hypothesized because of the similarity of ovarian cancer to mesotheliomas and the chemical relation of talc to asbestos, a known cause of mesotheliomas. The authors also investigated opportunities for potential talc exposure from rubber products such as condoms or diaphragms or from pelvic surgery. No significant differences were noted between cases and controls in these exposures, although the intensity of talc exposure from these sources was likely affected by variables not assessed in this study.

  • Pulmonary asbestos body counts and electron probe analysis of asbestos body cores in patients with mesothelioma: a study of 25 cases. V.L. Roggli, M.H. McGavran, J. Subach, et al. 1982;50(11):2423-32. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Malignant mesotheliomas of the pleura and peritoneum are well-recognized risks of asbestos exposure. We determined the asbestos body content of the lungs from 24 cases of malignant mesothelioma (19 pleural, five peritoneal) and compared such to the content of lungs from 50 consecutive adult autopsies and four cases of overt asbestosis using a Clorox-digestion concentration technique. The cores of 90 asbestos bodies were examined by energy dispersive x-ray analysis and compared with similar data from 120 standard asbestos fibers and 20 fiberglass fibers. The malignant mesothelioma patients had asbestos body counts intermediate between those of the general population and those of patients with asbestosis, although some of the mesothelioma cases overlapped with the general population. These latter cases often lacked an identifiable occupational exposure to asbestos. EDXA studies demonstrated an amphibole core in 88 of the 90 asbestos bodies (amosite or crocidolite in 80 of 88, anthophyllite or tremolite in eight of 88), and chrysotile in two instances.

  • An experimental model for treatment of mesothelioma. W.E. Smith, D.D. Hubert, S.M. Holiat, et al. 1981;47(4):658-63. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A peritoneal mesothelioma was induced by asbestos in a hamster, and was established in serial transfer to new hosts by injection of peritoneal effusion containing tumor cells. Biologically and histopathologically, this tumor is similar to its human counterpart. Three drugs were tested for efficacy using this model. Survival time was used as the only parameter of response and was compared with survival time of controls. Survival time increased 25 to 50% after short regimens of doxorubicin or 5-fluorouracil. Survival time increased up to 308% after long-continued treatments with cyclophosphamide. No cures were achieved.

  • Fibrous mesotheliomas (pseudofibroma) of the scrotal sac: a light and ultrastructural study. B. Benisch, B. Peison, H.J. Sobel, et al. 1981;47(4):731-5. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Fibrous mesotheliomas of the scrotal sac are described. Similar tumors have been previously reported as fibromas and pseudofibromas and have been considered to be non-neoplastic, reactive, fibrous lesions. Ultrastructural evidence for a mesothelial origin for these tumors is presented. The value of ultrastructural study in the classification of tumors arising in or on mesothelial lined surfaces is stressed.

  • Immunoblastic lymphadenopathy and asbestosis. F.W. Maguire, R.C. Mills, F.P. Parker. 1981;47(4):791-7. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Immunoblastic lymphadenopathy was diagnosed in a 71-year-old white man who had weakness, with weight loss, fever, cough, and generalized lymphadenopathy. The patient had a long occupational history of shipyard work. Diagnosis of asbestosis was made clinically by chest x-ray, and ferruginous bodies were found in the lung at autopsy. Recent reports have suggested a possible association between asbestos exposure and lymphoproliferative neoplasms. Chronic antigenic stimulation by asbestos could predispose one to the immunoproliferative disorder seen in this patient or be responsible for it. The possible significance of this relationship, previously unreported, is discussed for future consideration.

  • Peritoneal malignant mesothelioma in a patient with recurrent peritonitis. R.H. Riddell, M.J. Goodman, A.R. Moossa. 1981;48(1):134-9. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A patient is presented who developed a peritoneal malignant mesothelioma in association with severe persistent and recurrent diverticulitis. The case is unusual in that a spectrum of mesothelial proliferation was documented beginning initially as benign foci of mesothelial proliferation and passing through a stage of atypical proliferation before terminating as a malignant process. The possible role of the diverticular disease in the pathogenesis of the tumor is discussed.

  • Familial clustering of malignant mesothelioma. B. Risberg, J. Nickels, J. Wågermark. 1980;45(9):2422-7. Case report PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    A family with a remarkable aggregation of malignant mesothelioma is described. The father, 3 brothers, and a sister all died of the condition. The family and epidemiologic histories are reviewed. Random occupational asbestos exposure in the building industry probably occurred in 4 of the 5 cases. All of the patients were smokers. There is a low incidence of malignant mesothelioma in the area where they resided. These observations suggest that over and above the smoking and asbestos exposure, heredity may be an important predisposing factor in the genesis of this tumor.

  • Latency of asbestos disease among insulation workers in the United States and Canada. I.J. Selikoff, E.C. Hammond, H. Seidman. 1980;46(12):2736-40. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Two thousand two hundred seventy-one deaths were recorded among 17,800 asbestos insulation workers observed from January 1, 1967-December 31, 1976. There was little increase in cancer deaths or of asbestosis in less than 15-19 years from onset of employment. In general, though, the period of clinical latency was 2-4 decades or more and there were important differences among the several asbestos-associated diseases. Lung cancer peaked at about 30-35 years from onset and asbestosis at 40-45 years. Each tended to decline in incidence afterwards. Pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma reached their highest incidence later than lung cancer, but the incidence did not decline. In studies of effects of asbestos exposure, it appears advantageous to observe for at least 35-40 years or more from onset of exposure and to analyze the experience in duration-from-onset categories. If this is not possible, only the very limited early effects will be identified and the full import of the exposure may not be appreciated.

  • Malignant mesothelioma in North America. A.D. McDonald, J.C. McDonald. 1980;46(7):1650-6. PubMed · Publisher

    Abstract

    Ascertainment, through 7,400 pathologists, of all fatal malignant mesothelial tumors in Canada (1960-75) and the U.S.A. (1972) gave a total of 668 cases (272 in 1972). In Canada, the annual number of male cases rose from about 17 in 1966 to 25 in 1972 but the number of female cases remained fairly steady at a much lower level. The annual incidence in North America in 1972 was estimated at 2.8 per million males and 0.7 per million females aged 15 years and over. Occupational histories were obtained "blind" for 480 of the 557 cases through 1972, and their matched controls; relative risks were as follows: insulation work, 46.0 asbestos production and manufacture, 6.1, heating trades (other than insulation) 4.4. For nearly half the male cases and for about 5% of female cases, the tumor could be attributed to occupational exposure to asbestos, of which a fifth were in shipyards. No indication was found of other possible causes (including man-made mineral fibers, tobacco smoking, or residence near zeolite deposits). Four subjects were men who had been employed in Quebec chrysotile mines and 3 were children of employees, but no other subject had lived in the mining area. The findings remain consistent with a much greater mesothelioma-producing potential for crocidolite and amosite than for chrysotile; however, further studies of factory workers exposed to chrysotile only are needed to confirm this. Mineral fiber analysis of lung tissue from patients and controls is in progress.

1970s

1960s

1950s

Browse every journal in the library or the library by type of article, or return to medical research.

Cite this page

“Cancer.” AsbestosClaims.Law Library. https://asbestosclaims.law/library/research/journals/cancer.

ACL Doc numbers and their short links never change. See how to cite the Library.

Talk with an asbestos lawyer

Start with what you remember, and we'll take it from there.

Call 833-4-ASBESTOS Request a free case review

This page is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every asbestos case turns on its own facts, exposure history, diagnosis, deadlines, available evidence, and applicable law. Reviewing this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, call 833-4-ASBESTOS for a free case review.