Understanding Mesothelioma: The Meaning and More

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the thin lining of the body’s internal organs, known as the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a protective layer that covers certain organs, such as the lungs, heart, and abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals that were commonly used in construction and manufacturing industries.

What is the Mesothelium?

Before diving deeper into mesothelioma, it is essential to have a better understanding of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a thin layer of tissue that covers the internal organs of the body, creating a protective barrier. The mesothelium is present in various parts of the body, including:

Part of the body	Location of mesothelium
Lungs	Pleura
Heart	Pericardium
Abdomen	Peritoneum

The mesothelium has several functions in the body, including protecting organs from friction and serving as a lubricant to ensure that they can move smoothly. It also plays a role in immune system function and tissue repair.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium. It most commonly affects the lungs and is known as pleural mesothelioma. However, mesothelioma can also develop in the peritoneum, the tissue that lines the abdominal cavity, known as peritoneal mesothelioma, or the tissue that surrounds the heart, known as pericardial mesothelioma.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were commonly used in construction and manufacturing industries due to their heat-resistant properties. Asbestos fibers can become airborne when products containing asbestos are cut, drilled, or disturbed, and when inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the mesothelium, leading to cancerous growths over time.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Because mesothelioma is a rare cancer, its symptoms can often be mistaken for other, more common conditions. Symptoms of mesothelioma depend on the location of the cancer and may include:

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent coughing
• Fatigue
• Unintentional weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Swelling in the face or arms

Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

• Abdominal pain
• Swelling or bloating of the abdomen
• Unintentional weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in bowel habits
• Fatigue

Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Heart palpitations
• Fatigue
• Night sweats
• Coughing

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging due to its rarity and the similarity of its symptoms to other conditions. A diagnosis typically involves:

Medical History and Physical Exam

The doctor may begin by reviewing the patient’s medical history and conducting a physical exam to check for signs of mesothelioma, such as lumps or swelling.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, may be ordered to get a clearer picture of the affected area.

Biopsy

If imaging tests reveal abnormal tissue growth, a biopsy may be performed to remove a small sample of tissue for analysis. A pathologist can then examine the tissue for signs of cancerous growths.

Mesothelioma Treatment

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:

Surgery

Surgery involves removing the cancerous tissue, which may include the affected organ or part of it. Surgery is often combined with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to destroy cancerous cells. Chemotherapy may be administered orally, intravenously, or directly into the affected area.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

Mesothelioma FAQs

Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

A: Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Q: Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

A: Currently, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Q: Can mesothelioma be caused by second-hand exposure to asbestos?

A: Yes, second-hand exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

Q: Are there any known risk factors for developing mesothelioma?

A: In addition to exposure to asbestos, factors such as genetics, age, and gender may play a role in the development of mesothelioma.

Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?

A: The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos.

Q: Who is at risk for developing mesothelioma?

A: Individuals who have worked in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, which historically used asbestos, are at higher risk for developing mesothelioma.

Q: Does smoking increase the risk of developing mesothelioma?

A: Smoking does not directly cause mesothelioma, but it can increase the risk of developing other types of lung cancer, which is often misdiagnosed as mesothelioma.

Q: Can mesothelioma affect children?

A: While it is rare, mesothelioma can affect children who have been exposed to asbestos, either directly or indirectly.

Q: Is mesothelioma contagious?

A: No, mesothelioma is not contagious.

Q: Can mesothelioma spread to other parts of the body?

A: Yes, mesothelioma can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.

Q: Is mesothelioma the only type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos?

A: No, exposure to asbestos can also cause lung, ovarian, and laryngeal cancer.

Q: Can mesothelioma be found on routine medical exams?

A: Mesothelioma is usually not detected during routine medical exams, as its symptoms often mimic those of other, more common conditions.

Q: Are there any clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment?

A: Yes, there are numerous clinical trials underway to develop more effective treatments for mesothelioma.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. It affects the protective lining of the body’s internal organs, known as the mesothelium, and can be challenging to diagnose and treat. While there is no known cure for mesothelioma, treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

Take Action Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, don’t wait. Contact a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and learn more about support resources available to you.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.