Novel insights and recent discoveries on the genetics and pathogenesis of malignant mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a highly aggressive malignancy arising from the serosal lining. While most cases originate in the pleural lining of the thoracic cavity, a subset of cases primarily involves the peritoneum or, rarely, the pericardium or the tunica vaginalis (1). Studies have suggested that malignant mesothelioma comprises several clinicopathologic subgroups, with distinct site predilections and pathogenetic mechanisms. Here, we provide an overview on the recent discoveries on the genetics and pathogenesis of malignant mesothelioma, as well as the implications of these findings on the diagnostic workup