What is Mesothelioma
It is a tumor rare cancerous lung lining and chest cavity (pleura) or the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) that is typically due to prolonged exposure to asbestos.
Causes, incidence and risk factors
Prolonged exposure to asbestos, a fire-resistant material, is the biggest risk factor. Asbestos was once commonly found in vinyl roof, ceilings and insulation, cement and automobile brake materials. While many smoking asbestos workers, experts believe smoking is a cause.
Malignant mesothelioma affects men more frequently than women and the average age at diagnosis is 60 years.
The cases of mesothelioma appear to be increasing worldwide.
Symptoms
Symptoms may not appear until 20 to 50 years or more after exposure to asbestos and may include
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Weight Loss
Exams and Tests
- Chest radiograph
- Pleural fluid cytology
- Biopsy open lung
- Pleural biopsy
- Chest CT
Mesothelioma cases are often difficult to diagnose under the microscope. It can be difficult to distinguish between this type of tumor and other conditions and tumors of the pleura. More than one specialist may be involved in the analysis of the biopsy and the diagnosis may take some time.
Treatment
There is no cure. Without treatment, the average patient with malignant mesothelioma cases survived 9 months. It is a difficult cancer to treat.
Often the disease is too advanced for surgery. You can use chemotherapy or radiation therapy to reduce symptoms. Combining certain chemotherapy drugs may help reduce symptoms and improve survival, not cure cancer.
Consider participating in a clinical trial (assessment of new treatments), which may give you more treatment options.
Treatments for pain relief, oxygen therapy and other treatments may also help relieve symptoms.
Support Groups
The stress caused by disease can be eased by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems.
Expectations (prognosis)
The average survival time varies from 4 to 18 months, however, the prognosis depends on:
- The tumor stage
- The age and general health
- If surgery is an option
Complications
The mesothelioma tumor can spread rapidly to other organs.
Calling your health care
Make an appointment with the doctor if symptoms of malignant mesothelioma. You can even consult the mesothelioma lawyers for the same.
Prevention foir mesothelioma cases
Avoid exposure to asbestos.
Alternative Names to mesothelioma
Malignant Mesothelioma