Chromosomal abnormalities such as deletions of chromosome regions 1p, 3p, 9p, and 6q, as well as loss of chromosome 22, are commonly found in MPM. These recurrent genomic losses are consistent with the loss of both defined and putative tumor suppressor genes important in the development of MPM, including the CDKN2A locus in chromosomal location 9p21 containing p16 and [p14.sup.ARF], and neurofibromatosis 2 in chromosome 22. (16,17) Genetic susceptibility may also contribute to the etiology of malignant mesothelioma. Two small villages in file central Anatolia region of Turkey share a rare environmental pathogen for malignant mesothelioma (erionite exposure).