Mesothelioma is the name that is called a cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelial cells of an organ. Such are the cells that form a protective coating on the lungs, heart and abdominal organs. The best known of these membranes is the pleura, whose function is to be a surface lubricant that protects the lungs from rubbing against the rib cage.
Asbestos fibers and asbestosis
Virtually all cases of mesothelioma (pleural cancer) and lung cancer are related to the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Inhaled fibers can cause scar tissue inside the lung, which can not expand and contract normally. Annually, between 10,000 and 15,000 diagnosed cases worldwide. In general, most of the victims are men over 50 years.
The main characteristics of asbestos, which is the name given to a group of six different minerals-are long, strong fibers that can be separated and are flexible (can be interlaced) and resist high temperatures.
