Erionite-associated malignant pleural mesothelioma in Mexico

Malignant mesothelioma is a highly fatal cancer of the visceral and parietal pleura most often caused by asbestos exposure. However, studies over the past thirty-five to forty years have shown that a fibrous zeolite mineral found in the soil, erionite, is a strong causative agent of malignant mesothelioma as well. Cases of erionite-associated pleural mesothelioma have been widely reported in Turkey, but only one case has been documented in North America. Here we report a new North American case of epithelial malignant pleural mesothelioma in a vehicle repairman who was raised on a farm in the Mexican Volcanic Belt region. The complexities of the case highlight the importance of objective lung digestion studies to uncover the causative agents of mesotheliomas. It also highlights a need for increased environmental precautions and medical vigilance for mesotheliomas in erionite-rich regions of the United States and Mexico.

Duke Scholars

Author Victor Louis Roggli Pathology