Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that occurs in the thin layer of cells that surrounds the body’s internal organs. These cell walls are called the mesothelium. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a variety of the disease which occurs within the pleura, which is the lung’s mesothelium. Malignant pleural mesothelioma is the most common variety of mesothelioma and accounts for approximately 70% of all cases. Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer in all forms. Treatment is available, but options are dependant upon the stage of the mesothelioma upon diagnosis and the general health of the patient.
Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma can be difficult. Early diagnosis of mesothelioma is even more difficult, in that many experience no symptoms until the disease reaches a later stage and treatment options are limited. A routine chest x-ray or computer tomography scan for another purpose may incidentally detect the disease in the pleura. If this is the case, it is likely the patient will be recommended to undergo a biopsy. A biopsy uses a syringe to extract a small amount of tissue or fluid from the pleura for laboratory testing. If the cancer specialist affirms that a malignancy is present, they will likely recommend that treatment commence immediately.
Treatment of malignant mesothelioma can be dependant on many factors, but most are the specific natures of the patient’s cancer. Surgery is possible if the cancer is discovered early. Pneumonectomies, which involve the removal of lung tissue, are possible though an extra-pleural pneumonectomy is seen as the optimal procedure. An extra-pleural pneumonectomy will remove the entire affected lung, the abdomen, the pericardium, and the pleura. (The pericardium is a thin layer of cells surrounding the heart similar to the pleura.) Following surgery the abdomen and pericardium will be reconstructed using prosthetic material. If surgery is not an option, as is the case with most patients, some combination of chemotherapy and radiation treatment will likely be recommended.
The only known cause for malignant pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, though other factors such as smoking can exacerbate the risk. Asbestos, when inhaled becomes lodges in the lining of the lung. Over time, the fibers initiate a chronic irritation and scar tissue growth in the soft tissue. It is in this scar tissue that the malignancy’s groundwork is laid. If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos or may have been exposed to asbestos, it is important you consult a physician immediately. As said above, early detection means a longer prognosis and more time with your family and loved ones.