Fifteen Cases of Pleural Mesothelioma Associated With Occupational Exposure to Asbestos in Victoria

Fifteen cases of pleural mesothelioma occurring in Victoria are described. Occupational histories and the finding of asbestos bodies in lung tissue indicate a relationship between occupational exposure to asbestos and induction of pleural mesothelioma many years later. The exposure in some cases was relatively short but intense. Crocidolite or blue asbestos would seem to be particularly potent in the induction of these tumours.