What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a lethal form of cancer that attacks the thin layer of cells surrounding the lungs, heart, and abdominal cavity. This rare disease has been associated with asbestos exposure. Over 80 percent of individuals suffering from mesothelioma have worked with asbestos products for extended periods of time. Because the first symptoms appear decades after initial exposure to asbestos, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in late stages.

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Types of Mesothelioma

This cancer affects different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma accounts for over 75 percent of all cases. This form of cancer occurs in the pleural lining of the lungs, causing shortness of breath, hoarseness, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, anemia, fever, and muscle weakness. In advanced stages, pleural mesothelioma causes accumulation of excess fluid in the lungs.

Approximately 30 percent of all individuals suffering from mesothelioma are diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma. This form of cancer is also referred to as mesothelioma of the peritoneum because it develops in the thin membrane covering the organs of the abdomen. Peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. The first symptoms appear 20 to 30 years after asbestos exposure. This disease often has a shorter latency period than pleural and pericardial mesothelioma.

The main symptoms associated with peritoneal mesothelioma include fever, difficulty swallowing, upper abdominal pain, blood-clotting abnormalities, accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites), anorexia, and hypoglycemia. Some patients experience abdominal swelling, venous thrombosis, and bowel obstruction. Diarrhea and constipation often occur in peritoneal mesothelioma patients.

Pericardial mesothelioma affects less than 10 percent of all mesothelioma patients. This rare and aggressive disease attacks the lining of the heart. When it spreads to the lungs, it is considered secondary lung cancer. The only known cause of pericardial mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. This form of cancer occurs when asbestos fibers make their way to the heart. The most common symptoms include palpitations, respiratory problems, severe chest pain, fatigue, night sweats, and cough. Most individuals diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma are not eligible for surgery because the tumor is detected in advanced stages. Less than 60 percent of patients live another six months after diagnosis.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Diagnosing mesothelioma is a difficult task even for the most experienced doctors. If you present any symptoms associated with this form of cancer, the doctor will order a complete physical examination, imaging tests, biopsies, and lung function tests. He will also perform a physical exam to detect the presence of a pleural effusion. To provide an accurate diagnosis, the oncologist may recommend fluid biopsies, computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging scans, X-rays, and blood tests. These medical procedures help identify the type of cancer cells and the extent of the cancer.

All forms of mesothelioma are caused by exposure to asbestos. Detecting the tumor in early stages is essential. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, seek medical help immediately. To receive a free mesothelioma information packet and find out more about this aggressive disease, follow the link below.