Malignant Mesothelioma: A Study of Sixty-Six Cases

This study was conducted to review the epidemiology, and biochemical data of pleural fluid to assess the potential contribution to occupational risk of patients with malignant mesothelioma (MM) in Iran. Hospital files of patients with MM of the pleura in Masih Daneshvari Hospital were reviewed between 1997 and 2004 and were evaluated in a cross-sectional study. 66 patients (49 men and 17 women) with a mean age of 53.8± 4.2 yrs were selected. Probable or known occupational contacts were detected in 8 (12.1%) patients. The diagnosis was confirmed by closed pleural biopsy in 26(39.4%) cases. Statistical analysis showed significant cut-off for LDH and glucose level in pleural fluid analysis. Detailed occupational history must not overemphasize blind biopsy as the first diagnostic approach for MM of pleura and pleural fluid glucose as well as LDH had characteristic levels respectively. (Tanaffos 2006; 5(4): 59-63)