Re: Malignant mesothelioma from neighborhood exposure to anthophyllite asbestos

Abstract

We read with interest the recent case report of mesothelioma associated with neighborhood exposure to anthophyllite asbestos [Rom et al., 2001], and a report of asbestosis from occult exposure to anthophyllite [Dodson and Levin, 2001]. However, we wish to correct Rom's assertion that anthophyllite was mined exclusively in Finland and Japan. Five hundred and ten tons of anthophyllite was mined in the Bindi Bindi area of Western Australia during the period 1942‐49 [Carter and Lipple, 1982]. The mining was largely open cast and the resulting ore was transported by railway to Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. The ore was then milled in a predominantly suburban area. The majority of the fiber produced was exported to unknown destinations, although some was used locally for boiler lagging, acid resistant filters and oil filters [Johnson, 1948]. It is not known what, if any, dust extraction system was in place at the mill. The current condition of the mine site is not known. However, the area surrounding the mine site was and remains a sparsely populated area and only a small population would be affected by any continuing environmental exposure.

Anthophyllite Asbestos: The Role of Fiber Width in Mesothelioma Induction. Part 4: Mechanistic Considerations regarding the Failure to Observe Anthophyllite Asbestos Mesotheliomas in Humans

“…They also say The Finnish Institute of Occupational Medicine in 1990 reported two mesothelioma patients with only anthophyllite in their lung tissue (Hernberg et al, 1990) but crocidolite exposure cannot be excluded. Kottek and Kilpatrick (2002) also independently critiqued Rom et al (2001) and pointed out a number of its weaknesses. Korchevsky et al (2008) published a study of four mining districts in Russia one of which allegedly produced anthophyllite asbestos.…”