Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma develops from the formation of cancer cells in the chest cavity or abdominal lining. When the malignant cells are located in the pleura, or the thin tissue that forms the lining of the chest cavity and covering of the lungs, the disease is classified as pleural mesothelioma. When the cells are found in the peritoneum, or the thin tissue layer lining the abdomen and covering many of the organs in that section of the body, it is categorized as peritoneal mesothelioma. Both forms are considered terminal, but treatment options do exist to help alleviate related symptoms and prolong life expectancy.

The only widely recognized cause of the development of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. However, the source of an individual case can be difficult to trace due to the long latency period often associated with the disease. Many patients do not exhibit symptoms of mesothelioma until decades after exposure to  asbestos fibers. The latency period can be as long as 50 years.

Diagnosing mesothelioma can be difficult because many of the symptoms of mesothelioma can mimic other diseases or conditions. When making a mesothelioma diagnosis, medical experts often have to obtain a thorough employment and residential history in addition to one’s medical history to ensure accuracy. This is because an overwhelming majority of mesothelioma patients were exposed to asbestos while carrying out work related activities, and many others were exposed from contamination in or near their homes.

Mesothelioma treatment may come in the form of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or a combination of two or more of these options. Although there is no recognized cure for malignant mesothelioma many patients do respond to treatments designed to alleviate some of their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Speaking with a qualified physician can help one determine the best treatment options for their condition after receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis, or outline the proper steps needed to diagnose possible symptoms.