What is Mesothelioma?
Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer most often caused by exposure to asbestos. It affects the mesothelium, the thin lining that protects the internal organs of the body. The cancer cells develop in this lining.
Who is at risk for Mesothelioma?
Inhaling asbestos dust or fibers puts one at risk of developing mesothelioma, which may not show for many years after exposure has occurred. Asbestos was widely used for construction in the 20th century and those who worked with this material are at risk of developing this disease. Also at risk are people who have been exposed to asbestos at their residence and those who live with people who have been exposed to asbestos at their jobs.
Types of Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the outer lining of the lung, the pleura, and the internal chest wall. It is the most common form of mesothelioma. There are three types of mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity. Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the heart, the pericardium. This disease also affects the tunica vaginalis, the lining of the testis.
Diagnosis
Due to the similarity of the symptoms of mesothelioma to other diseases, it is often difficult to diagnose. The first step is usually a physical exam to check for health and unusual occurrences. Doctors will also check the patient’s medical history, including past illnesses and possible exposure to asbestos. Further examination may include a biopsy, bronchoscopy, chest x-ray, complete blood count, cytologic exam and sedimentation rate.
What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
It takes a long time for symptoms of mesothelioma to become visible, often between 20 and 50 years after exposure. Symptoms of malignant mesothelioma will depend on the affected area.
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include shortness of breath, pain in the chest or abdomen due to an accumulation of fluid around the lung or in the abdomen, fatigue and wheezing.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma include pain and swelling in the abdomen due to an accumulation of fluid, weight loss, fever, anemia, and obstruction of the bowel.
These symptoms could also indicate other diseases so it is always best to get a medical examination and diagnosis.
What is the Treatment for Mesothelioma?
Stage I or II mesothelioma is receptive to treatment by radiation, chemotherapy, and other conventional therapies. These treatments have been shown to extend the patient’s life by at least five years. However, treatment will depend on various factors, including:
Type of mesothelioma cancer cells
Size of the tumor
Stage of the cancer
Possibility of removing the tumor by surgery
Amount of fluid present in the abdomen or chest
Age and general health of the patient
New diagnosis of the disease or a reoccurrence.
There are several treatment options that patients will qualify for based on the stage of their condition. Check with the National Cancer Institute for clinical trials for local and advanced malignant mesothelioma (see Resources below).
Resources:
Search the National Cancer Institute's database for open clinical trials for mesothelioma.
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