Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

In vitro Mesothelial Clearance Assay that Models the Early Steps of Ovarian Cancer Metastasis
Published on: February 17, 2012
Asbestos in extrapulmonary sites: omentum and mesentery
R F Dodson1, M F O'Sullivan, J Huang
1Department of Cell Biology and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Center at Tyler, Tyler, TX 75708, USA.
Study Objectives:
Asbestos fibers have not been reported in tissues from the peritoneal cavity. Therefore, omentum, mesentery, and lung tissues from 20 individuals in whom mesothelioma was diagnosed were analyzed for asbestos bodies and asbestos fibers.
Design:
Tissue was digested and prepared filters were analyzed by light microscopy and analytical transmission electron microscopy.
Results:
Asbestos bodies were found in the lungs of 18 individuals, mesentery samples from 5, and omentum samples from 2. Uncoated asbestos fibers were found in lungs of 19 patients, 17 of whom had fibers in at least one extrapulmonary site. The most common asbestos in the omentum and mesentery was amosite. Several features of asbestos found in lung influenced the likelihood of amphibole fibers being found in the omentum or mesentery. Lung features included total amphibole fiber burden, length, aspect ratio, and ferruginous body burden. An increased total ferruginous body burden was strongly associated with increased likelihood of detecting amphiboles in the omentum (p < 0. 05).
Conclusion:
Asbestos fibers reach areas in the peritoneal cavity where some mesotheliomas develop. This study suggests their presence can be predicted based on concentrations and characteristics of fiber burdens in lung tissue.
Related Concept Videos
Secondary Lymphoid Organs
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...
Pleura of the Lungs
Peritoneum
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
Pulmonary Tuberculosis III
The first classification is based on the development of the disease, and it includes the following categories:
Pleural Disorders: Types and Brief Description
Appendicitis

