What is a key characteristic of mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is primarily associated with the lungs, specifically the pleural lining that surrounds them. This cancer is most commonly linked to asbestos exposure, which leads to the abnormal growth of mesothelial cells. As these cells multiply uncontrollably, they form a tumor that is characteristic of mesothelioma.

In addition to its occurrence in the lungs, mesothelioma can also manifest in other areas, such as the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or even the heart (pericardial mesothelioma), but the pleural form is the most prevalent. This specificity to lung involvement underscores the significance of respiratory exposure to asbestos as a primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma.

The other characteristics of mesothelioma, such as its association with latency (it typically has a long latency period of 20-50 years) and its classification as a malignant tumor rather than benign, further reinforce the understanding of this serious asbestos-related cancer.