Mesothelioma Explained

Mesothelioma is the term used to describe cancer of the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers many of the body's organs. Mesothelioma can be found in the sac lining the chest (pleura), the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), or the lining around the heart (pericardium). Mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. These fibers irritate the mesothelial cells that form the mesothelium.

Prevalence of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma cases in the U.S. have increased over the past 20 years, with approximately 2,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Mesothelioma occurs mostly in male adults who have worked closely with asbestos.

History of Mesothelioma

The first cases of mesothelioma were discovered in the "Asbestos Hills" in South Africa. Although the occurrence of mesothelioma in the U.S. is low, there has still been a threefold increase in mesothelioma cases due to exposure to asbestos in asbestos product plants and shipbuilding facilities.

Types of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma can be classified more specifically based on where the cancerous tissue is found.

Pleural Mesothelioma affects of the lining of the lungs. It is the most common type of mesothelioma.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdominal cavity

Pericardial Mesothelioma affects the heart and tissue surrounding the heart.

Cause of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. The asbestos fibers cause the cells of the mesothelium to become abnormal and begin to divide uncontrollably, forming a malignant tumor (cancer). These cells break off and spread to other parts of the body, causing further damage to organs and tissues.

Signs and Symptoms of Mesothelioma

Signs and symptoms of mesothelioma usually do not appear until 30+ years after exposure to asbestos. Early stages of mesothelioma are similar to pneumonia. The following is a list of the common signs and symptoms of mesothelioma:

Dyspnea

Swelling of abdomen/chest, neck or face

Chest pain

Persistent cough

Fever

Weight loss

Difficulty swallowing

The Development of Mesothelioma

Exposure to asbestos for as short a time period as one to two months may cause mesothelioma to develop 30+ years later. Exposure may have occurred in the workplace when handling asbestos fibers or materials composed of asbestos, or at home just by living in the close quarters with asbestos.

If you have been exposed to asbestos at any time, and you have any of the symptoms of mesothelioma, you should see your doctor for a definitive diagnosis.

Source: National Cancer Institute
Updated: 12/22/05