Mesothelioma is an uncommon cancer that forms in the thin lining—known as the mesothelium—that surrounds the body’s internal organs. Most commonly, it develops in the lungs (pleura) and is called pleural mesothelioma, though it can also occur in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), heart (pericardial mesothelioma), and testes (tunica vaginalis).
This disease is strongly associated with asbestos exposure, where tiny asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested and become lodged in the body, leading to inflammation, scarring, and ultimately the development of cancer cells.
Types and Forms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is categorized based on location and cell type. The International Mesothelioma Interest Group classifies mesothelioma into the following forms:
- Pleural Mesothelioma: Affects the lining of the lungs. This is the most common type.
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Forms in the abdominal cavity and affects abdominal organs.
- Pericardial Mesothelioma: A rare form affecting the lining around the heart.
- Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis: Occurs in the lining of the testicles.
Cell types include:
- Epithelioid Mesothelioma: Most common and responsive to treatment.
- Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma: More aggressive and difficult to treat.
- Biphasic Mesothelioma: A combination of both.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. These asbestos fibers were widely used in building materials, asbestos insulation, asbestos mines, and industrial applications.
Key Risk Factors:
- Occupational exposure in construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing.
- Environmental exposure from living near asbestos mines.
- Genetic predisposition or other risk factors, such as radiation therapy.
Asbestos-related diseases may take decades to develop, and even brief exposure can result in developing mesothelioma later in life.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms often appear in the early stages but are mistaken for common illnesses.
Common Signs Include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain (for peritoneal cases)
- Pleural effusion (fluid buildup in the chest cavity)
Diagnosing Mesothelioma
Diagnosis typically involves
- Medical history review, especially relating to being exposed to asbestos.
- Physical exam and assessment of symptoms.
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.
- Biopsies to confirm the presence of tumor cells.
Doctors look for pleural thickening, pleural plaques, and abnormal tissue growth.
How is mesothelioma treated?
Mesothelioma treatments depend on the stage, type, and patient health. Although there’s no definitive cure, disease control is possible with a combination of the following:
Standard Treatment Options:
- Surgery: To remove tumors or fluid buildup.
- Radiation therapy: To target cancer cells and shrink tumors.
- Chemotherapy: Often used in systemic treatment.
- Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific mutations in tumor cells.
- Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system fight the cancer.
- Photodynamic therapy: Uses light-activated drugs to kill cancer.
- Palliative care: Provides symptom relief and improves life expectancy.
Participation in clinical trials supported by institutions like the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society can offer access to emerging therapies.
Life Expectancy and Prognosis
The risk of mesothelioma progressing depends on how early the disease is detected. On average, mesothelioma patients have a life expectancy of 12 to 21 months after diagnosis, although this varies by age, cell type, and treatment response.
The survival rate improves with early intervention and access to clinical oncology expertise and advanced treatment options.
Prevention and Regulation
To reduce the risk of developing mesothelioma:
- Avoid contact with asbestos particles and asbestos-related materials.
- Follow guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for safe removal of asbestos.
- Be aware of potential occupational exposure and ensure proper protective equipment is used.
Even today, asbestos exposure remains a concern in old buildings and building materials constructed before the 1980s.
Get Help Now
If you think you may face a greater risk of mesothelioma, it’s important to act quickly. Mesothelioma Asbestos Help Center offers access to experienced specialists, personalized guidance, and valuable resources designed to support patients and families affected by this disease.