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Mesothelioma is a cancer of the mesothelium affecting approximately 2000 to 3000 new patients in the United States, and roughly 10,000 people worldwide every year. The mesothelium refers to the protective sac or lining that covers internal organs. You may be more familiar with the names such as the peritoneum (which covers the abdominal cavity), or the pleura (which covers the lungs and lines the wall of the chest). The mesothelium produces a fluid that allows the organs to slide easily against the other organs next to them. A sort of lubricant. What Are The Causes Of Mesothelioma? Although there can be other causes of mesothelioma, asbestos has been found to be the cause in approximately 70 to 80 percent of all cases. Asbestos is a group of six naturally occuring minerals with strong flexible glass-like fibers that was used as insulation in a number of industries. In 2005, the European Union banned all uses asbestos. It also banned the extraction, manufacture and processing of asbestos products. Use has been severely limited or banned in most other countries. Also some evidence points to some kinds of exposure to radiation, but the vast majority of cases result from asbestos exposure. Who Is At Risk Of Developing Mesothelioma? Because little was known of the risk to workers , roughly 27.5 million workers in the U.S. were exposed between 1940 and 1979. Working in shipyards (especially during Worl War II when there was massive production of ships with their need for insulated pipes), asbestos mines and mills, and construction trades that involved the use of insulation material such as plumbers and electricians were noted places of exposure to asbestos dust. The heavier the exposure, and the longer the exposure time, the higher the incidence of asbestos mesothelioma. There is some evidence that exposure to asbestos workers can be a risk factor to those around them, such as family members. What Are The Mesothelioma Symptoms? In most cases, symptoms of mesothelioma do not present themselves until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. In the case of pleural mesothelioma, chest pain or shortness of breath may be indicators of mesothelioma. If it occurs in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) patients may experience weight loss, abdominal pain, or swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen (ascites). They may suffer from abnormal blood clotting, anemia, or bowel obstruction. Sometimes there may be trouble swalloowing, or swelling of the face or neck. Usually these will be symptoms of other less serious problems. It is extremely important to see a doctor to have a diagnosis made. How Will The Doctor Make The Mesothelioma Diagnosis? Diagnosis of mesothelioma begins with a review of the patient’s medical history, especially a history of any asbestos esposure. A physical examination will be performed including x-rays of chest and abdomen, along with a lung funtion test. Sometimes a CAT scan or an MRI will also be ordered. Any suspicious tissues will be biopsied to see if they are indeed malignant. If a diagnosis of mesothelioma is made, then the doctor will need to assess the stage or extent of the disease. He will want to know if it is present only on the surface of the membrane, or if it has spread to other parts of the body. What Are the Mesothelioma Treatment Options? Treatment of mesothelioma depends on the general health of the patient, and the location and extent of the disease. In general though, there are three options. Surgery to try to remove it, or the use of chemotherapy or radiation may be used. In many cases there will be a combination of treatments. Mesothelioma Prognosis Generally speaking, the prognosis for a diagnosis of mesothelioma is not good, with patients being informed that they may survive another 8 to 18 months following diagnosis. It is dependent upon the extent of the disease. There have been some notable exceptions. Mesothelioma cancer patient resource with questions and answers about Asbestos Mesothelioma Information, a deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
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