Abstract | BACKGROUND: METHODS: We examined 312 cases of mesothelioma for which fiber burden analyses of lung parenchyma had been performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to determine the content of tremolite, non-commercial amphiboles, talc and chrysotile. The vast majority of these patients were exposed to dust from products containing asbestos. RESULTS:
Tremolite was identified in 166 of 312 cases (53%) and was increased above background levels in 81 cases (26%). Fibrous talc was identified in 193 cases (62%) and correlated strongly with the tremolite content (P < 0.0001). Chrysotile was identified in only 32 cases (10%), but still correlated strongly with the tremolite content (P < 0.0001). Talc levels explained less of the tremolite deviance for cases with an increased tremolite level than for cases with a normal range tremolite level (22 versus 42%). In 14 cases (4.5%) non-commercial amphibole fibers ( tremolite, actinolite and/or anthophyllite) were the only fiber types found above background. CONCLUSIONS:
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Authors | Victor L Roggli, Robin T Vollmer, Kelly J Butnor, Thomas A Sporn |
Journal | The Annals of occupational hygiene
(Ann Occup Hyg)
Vol. 46
Issue 5
Pg. 447-53
(Jul 2002)
ISSN: 0003-4878 [Print] England |
PMID | 12176759
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
|
Chemical References |
- Asbestos, Amphibole
- tremolite
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Topics |
- Aged
- Asbestos, Amphibole
(adverse effects)
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Mesothelioma
(etiology)
- Middle Aged
- Occupational Diseases
(etiology)
- Occupational Exposure
(analysis)
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