Quantitative and analytical studies in the diagnosis of mesothelioma.

The vast majority of patients with malignant mesothelioma of the pleura or peritoneum have an abnormal tissue asbestos content as assessed by digestion techniques. These procedures allow for the quantification of asbestos bodies, as well as numbers and types of mineral fibers. In general, analyses of mineral fiber content correlate well with occupational exposure history. Such analyses are useful for the identification of asbestos-related mesotheliomas and separation from those due to other causes.