Peritoneal mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma is said to be the least common form of mesothelioma, comprising an estimated 20-30 percent of diagnoses in the U.S. This rare cancer is identified by the presence of malignant cells in the peritoneum, or abdominal lining. Like pleural mesothelioma, it is caused by the inhalation of asbestos. The disease is said to affect a higher percentage of males than females, which is largely attributed to the link between asbestos use and several male dominated occupations such as construction, shipbuilding, and mining prior to asbestos regulations of the 1970s.

Many individuals who develop peritoneal mesothelioma do not show signs or symptoms of the disease until decades after initial exposure. However, some studies show the latency period for this form of mesothelioma may be significantly shorter than that for pleural mesothelioma by several years.

Several symptoms may be exhibited by individuals suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma including abdominal pain, anemia, obstruction of the bowel, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, fatigue, inflammation in the abdominal cavity, and other health issues. Because many peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms are also present with a range of other medical conditions, it is important to obtain the guidance of a qualified physician if one suspects they may have the disease. Providing thorough details of one’s work and residential history may also help ensure a proper diagnosis.

A qualified physician can also provide more effective detail on issues such as an individual peritoneal mesothelioma prognosis, mesothelioma clinical trials, types of asbestos lung cancer, mesothelioma causes, mesothelioma medicine, treatment options, and other matters relevant for patients and their families.

As with any serious disease, it is important to educate oneself about the various aspects of the ailment in order to cope with dealing with one’s illness in the healthiest way possible. Talking with a trusted medical professional is the recommended first step in understanding one’s medical condition.