The incidence of malignant mesothelioma, a neoplastic process affecting the pleura, as well as to a lesser extent the peritoneum, is increasing. is near always caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers years earlier the development of the malignancy. Since asbestos exposure by and large occurs on the chore site, obtaining a thorough occupational history is critical. The elapsed time between first exposure to asbestos together with the development of an asbestos-induced illness is called latency. The minimum latency for mesothelioma is ten years; however, a latency of xxx to forty years is more common (Finnish Institute. Scan J Work Environ Health 1997; 23:311). Latency as well as longevity are fundamental factors inwards the mesothelioma epidemic of 2000.
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