Malignant mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that originates within the mesothelium, a thin layer of cells that lubricates the body’s internal organs. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos, once introduced to the body, will often lodge itself within the soft organ tissue and, over time, create a chronic inflammation which lays the groundwork for the cancer growth. Mesothelioma is atypical in that symptoms may not manifest for 20-50 years after an exposure. Because of this latency, the causal relationship between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma is not always immediately recognized until symptoms appear. However, by the time symptoms appear, mesothelioma is usually already in a late stage within the body.
Symptoms of mesothelioma, like any other disease, will vary from patient to patient. The variety of mesothelioma with which the patient is battling, will also dictate symptoms. Mesothelioma has three forms, whose names indicate where the disease originated. Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the pleura, the lining which surrounds the lung. Pericardial mesothelioma affects the pericardium, a lining which surrounds the heart. Peritoneal mesothelioma originates within the peritoneum, the mesothelium which protects the abdominal cavity.
General symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chronic cough, chest or abdominal pain, and weight loss. More specifically however are some symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, which may include mild or sever abdominal pain, nausea, and abdominal swelling. Heart palpitations, chest pains, and chronic cough may be more indicative of pericardial mesothelioma.
If these symptoms appear it is important to consult a physician immediately. Early detection of mesothelioma is the most important factor in determining what treatments are available to the patient. If discovered early enough, surgery may be possible, except in cases of pericardial mesothelioma where the location of the tumor makes surgery difficult. In any case, after a thorough diagnosis, a physician will recommend a treatment program. Though mesothelioma has no cure, treatment options are available to lessen pain and make the cancer more manageable. If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos knowingly it is especially important to be on the lookout for adverse symptoms. Frequent chest or other body scans are recommended, as these will be able to detect the cancer in its earlier stages. Whatever the case, frequent and open communication with your physician will be the most important step you can take.