[Distribution of ferruginous bodies in the lung in cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma with definite occupational history of asbestos exposure].

The distribution of ferruginous bodies in the lung in cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma with definite occupational history of asbestos exposure was examined, and the length of ferruginous bodies and the kinds of asbestos fibers were also evaluated. Ferruginous bodies were most numerous in the upper lobes, especially in S1, and were least numerous in the lower lobes. On the other hand, the longest ferruginous bodies were detected in the lower lobes. Amosite and crocidolite (amphibole groups) were found in almost all cases of malignant pleural mesothelioma, but chrysotile was found in only one case. The longer fiber length of asbestos in the amphibole group was considered to be important in the carcinogenicity of malignant mesothelioma, since almost all cases of malignant mesothelioma originated from the lower pleura.