Mesothelioma is a cancer that can arise from the cells lining the lungs or abdominal cavity. This is a rare cancer which is strongly related to a history of exposure to Asbestos. Mesothelioma of the pleura, which is the lining of the lungs is the most common form. In the United States, there are around 3300 cases per year with declining rates as a result of control of asbestos exposure.
The cancer develops many years to even decades after exposure to asbestos, usually after the exposure is no longer present.
The individual experiences a gradual worsening of the following symptoms which occurs due to a growth on the lining of the lungs which may be associated with fluid surrounding the lungs as well
The cancer can, in advanced stages, spread to the bone, liver or nervous system causing bone pains, jaundice and weakness or numbness.
The diagnosis is suspected based on the history of symptoms and from a report of exposure to asbestos in the past. Following a physical exam, the doctor would confirm the diagnosis based on the following tests
The treatment of the tumor is based on the stage of the disease which is in turn determined by the spread of the cancer on imaging studies. The general treatment options are as follows
Due to the slow progression of the disease, it is often missed initially and is diagnosed only in late stages. This makes the treatment more challenging and very few patients are cured of cancer. Patients, in general, survive for only about a year after diagnosis. Death occurs due to complications associated with the spread of cancer to surrounding structures.