Mesothelioma, typically caused by exposure to asbestos, is a rare cancer form that affects the mesothelium membrane. Generally, It begins in the pleura (lining around lungs) or peritoneum (lining around the abdomen).
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers the internal organs of the body and protects them. It comprises two cell layers; one is immediately surrounding the organ, and the other is forming a sac around it. Organs can quickly move and glide against adjacent organs due to a lubricating fluid released between these layers by the mesothelium. Depending upon its body location, It has different names, like pleura surround the lungs, peritoneum surrounds the abdomen, and pericardium surrounds the heart.
Mesothelioma tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant mesothelioma has associated with the inhalation of asbestos particles at the workplace. On the other hand, benign mesothelioma, also called fibroma, doesn’t seem to have any such connection with asbestos exposure.
Shipyard workers, asbestos mines and mills workers, etc., have an increased risk of mesothelioma. In a significant percentage of patients, asbestos has been a considerable risk factor. Not just asbestos workers, even their families have been affected by coming in contact with asbestos dust through their (the workers) clothes and hair. In addition, chances of lung cancer are significantly increased by a combination of smoking and asbestos exposure.
The symptoms of mesothelioma may change depending on where the tumor is located in the body.
- Pleural symptoms include chest pain or shortness of breath.
- Peritoneal symptoms include abdominal pain, abdominal swelling, or weight loss.
Anemia, fever abnormal blood clotting are other symptoms. Diagnosis includes running tests like a biopsy, CT scan, MRI, thoracoscopy, etc.
Depending upon the location of the tumor, stage of disease, and patient’s health and age, the treatment may differ. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of all is done.
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