Electron microscopy analysis of mineral fibers in human lung tissue

Abstract

In the present study, lung samples from 126 autopsied cases were examined to determine the content of mineral fibers using analytical transmission electron microscopy (ATEM). The cases were divided into four groups (22 lungs of persons exposed to ambient environmental pollution, 32 cases of mesothelioma, 38 cases of primary lung cancer, and 34 asbestosis cases, 13 of these with additional pleural plaques). Fibers were counted, measured, and mineralogically identified using a combination of X‐ray microanalysis and electron diffraction of the non‐oriented fiber. Concentration of fibrous particles (defined as particles above 1 μm in length with roughly parallel long sides and an aspect ratio of 5:1 and greater) was calculated as fibers 10⁶/g dry lung weight. The concentration of chrysotile was found to be similar throughout the groups except for two cases in the asbestosis group with comparably high numbers of chrysotile. However, a remarkable difference for amphiboles could be observed between the groups. Asbestos bodies were mostly found in the asbestosis group. There was a rather good correlation between numbers of amphibole fibers and asbestos bodies, with an average ratio of 10:1. For compariso purposes between occupationally exposed/non‐exposed individuals, a transition was found in the concentration range of 3–10⁷ asbestos fibers/g dried lung weight.