Malignant mesothelioma is a growth that occurs within the mesothelium of the body’s internal organs. The mesothelium is a thin layer of cells that line and lubricate the organs so that they may move freely within the body cavities. While the vast majority of these growths are malignant, meaning cancerous, in some cases non-cancerous growths, known as benign tumors, may appear. Benign mesothelioma is an extremely rare cancer and is more commonly referred to as a solitary tumor. It is generally not life threatening and can be removed with surgery in most cases. Prognoses are generally encouraging.
Diagnosis of a benign mesothelioma growth is usually incidental, but may be spurned on by the appearance of symptoms. Symptoms for benign mesothelioma include a chronic cough, chest pains, or bloated feeling in the chest area. A chest X-ray or computer tomography scan for some other ailment may detect the growth, in which case a physician will likely recommend a biopsy. Without a biopsy it is almost impossible to discern the difference between a malignant mesothelioma tumor and a benign one, thus validating the importance of this procedure. During a biopsy a small amount of tissue will be removed for lab examination. If a benign tumor is discovered, typically surgery will be recommended to remove the tumor.
It should be noted that while prognoses of benign tumors are generally encouraging, they could indicative of a malignancy to occur later. Malignant mesothelioma is caused by the chronic inflammation in the body’s soft tissue around the mesothelium, which is initiated by the presence of asbestos fibers. Malignant mesothelioma is incurable and treatments are generally palliative. It is important that if a patient was exposed to asbestos, they should be especially mindful of this possibility and visit a doctor regularly for check ups and x-rays.