What Else Can Cause Mesothelioma Besides Asbestos?

Genetic Predisposition

Research has shown that genetics can play a role in an individual's susceptibility to mesothelioma, particularly through inherited mutations. One such genetic factor is the BAP1 (BRCA1 associated protein-1) gene mutation.

BAP1 Gene Mutation

• Increased Risk: Individuals with a mutation in the BAP1 gene have a higher risk of developing mesothelioma, as well as other cancers, including uveal melanoma and renal cell carcinoma. This mutation can be inherited, meaning that it can run in families.
• Mechanism: The BAP1 gene is involved in regulating cell growth and preventing cancerous changes in cells. When this gene is mutated, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, making it more likely for mesothelioma to develop, particularly when combined with asbestos exposure.

Family History

• Familial Cases: Although rare, there are instances of mesothelioma occurring more frequently within certain families, suggesting a potential genetic predisposition. These cases may occur even with minimal asbestos exposure, indicating that genetics can play a significant role in the development of the disease.

Radiation Exposure

Exposure to high doses of radiation has also been linked to the development of mesothelioma, although this is much less common than asbestos-related cases.

Radiation Therapy

• Secondary Cancer Risk: Individuals who have undergone radiation therapy for other types of cancer, particularly cancers of the chest or abdomen, may have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma later in life. The radiation can damage the mesothelial cells, potentially leading to cancerous changes. For more information on who is at risk, see Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma?.
• Latency Period: Similar to asbestos-related mesothelioma, the latency period for radiation-induced mesothelioma can be long, often taking decades to manifest after the initial exposure.

Thorium Dioxide (Thorotrast)

• Historical Use: Thorium dioxide, known as Thorotrast, was a radioactive contrast agent used in the 1930s and 1940s for certain medical imaging procedures. Patients who received Thorotrast have been found to have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, along with other cancers, due to the long-term radiation exposure from the substance.

Exposure to Other Mineral Fibers

Besides asbestos, other mineral fibers have been linked to mesothelioma, although these cases are relatively rare.

Erionite

• High Risk in Specific Regions: Erionite is a naturally occurring mineral fiber similar to asbestos that has been linked to high rates of mesothelioma, particularly in certain regions of Turkey. In these areas, erionite is present in the local soil and has been used in building materials, leading to widespread exposure. Learn more about the different types of mesothelioma, such as pleural mesothelioma.
• Mechanism: Like asbestos, erionite fibers can be inhaled and become lodged in the mesothelium, leading to chronic inflammation and an increased risk of mesothelioma.

Other Mineral Fibers

• Silica and Talc: While the connection is not as strong as with asbestos or erionite, some studies have suggested that exposure to silica and talc, especially talc contaminated with asbestos, may increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, these associations are less well-established and continue to be the subject of ongoing research.

Simian Virus 40 (SV40)

The potential role of the Simian Virus 40 (SV40) in the development of mesothelioma has been a topic of debate within the scientific community.

Historical Contamination

• Polio Vaccines: SV40 is a virus that was found in some polio vaccines administered between 1955 and 1963. The virus was inadvertently introduced into these vaccines through contaminated monkey kidney cells used in the vaccine production process.
• Controversial Link: Some studies have suggested that SV40 might contribute to the development of mesothelioma by interfering with tumor suppressor proteins in cells. However, this connection remains controversial, and further research is needed to confirm any causal relationship.

Chronic Serosal Inflammation

• Repeated Infections or Inflammation: Conditions that cause repeated inflammation or infections of the pleura, peritoneum, or pericardium can, over time, increase the risk of mesothelioma. Examples include chronic pleuritis, tuberculosis, or chronic peritonitis. To understand how mesothelioma can be detected early, visit early detection methods.
• Foreign Bodies: The presence of foreign bodies, such as shrapnel or medical implants, that cause chronic irritation of the mesothelial tissues might also contribute to the development of mesothelioma, though this is exceedingly rare.

Conclusion

While asbestos remains the primary cause of mesothelioma, other factors can also contribute to the risk of developing this disease. Genetic predispositions, radiation exposure, other mineral fibers, and even chronic inflammation can all play roles in the development of mesothelioma, though these cases are far less common than those caused by asbestos. Understanding these additional risk factors is crucial for a more complete picture of the disease and may help in identifying individuals who are at risk, even without significant asbestos exposure. For more information on the causes of mesothelioma, see What causes mesothelioma?.

Sources:

• National Cancer Institute - Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Asbestos: Overview and Health Effects
• World Health Organization (WHO) - Asbestos: Elimination of Asbestos-Related Diseases
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Asbestos and Its Health Effects
• American Cancer Society - Mesothelioma Risk Factors