Mesothelioma

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a layer of protective tissue that covers the majority of internal organs.

Treatments are available to extend life expectancy and improve quality of life, but there is no cure for mesothelioma.

Tumor location determines the four types of mesothelioma.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

Asbestos causes mesothelioma. The carcinogen is the primary proven cause of the disease. Asbestos-related diseases may occur after repeated use of asbestos-contaminated products, such as talc and older construction materials.

This cancer begins to develop when a person inhales or swallows asbestos fibers. The fibers become lodged in the soft lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. Over time, tumors form on the damaged tissue, leading to mesothelioma.

Most people exposed to asbestos will not develop mesothelioma. However, some factors place specific people more at risk than others.

Mesothelioma Risk Factors

People who handled or were around asbestos for prolonged periods of time have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Those in close contact with exposed workers are also at risk.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

Symptoms of mesothelioma include dry cough, shortness of breath and respiratory complications. Other symptoms, which typically vary by type of mesothelioma, appear when tumors spread, grow and press against the chest wall and the abdominal cavity.

Talking to a doctor about your symptoms can lead to an early mesothelioma diagnosis, allowing for more treatment options. Mesothelioma symptoms appear like other, more common cancers and illnesses, and misdiagnosis is common. It’s essential to be aware of your history of asbestos exposure and discuss it with your doctor as soon as possible.

Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Doctors use several procedures and tests to diagnose mesothelioma, but only a biopsy can confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis. A mesothelioma diagnosis in the early stages of cancer improves a patient’s eligibility for more treatment options.

How to get an earlier mesothelioma diagnosis Dr. Jeffrey Velotta | 2:35

Common Mesothelioma Testing Procedures

Patients can expect to undergo several imaging scans, blood tests and biopsy procedures after their mesothelioma diagnosis. These tests help doctors confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and determine cancer location, stage and cell type.

Mesothelioma Cell Types

The three cell types of mesothelioma are epithelioid, sarcomatoid and biphasic. They are named for the characteristics of cells within tumors. Epithelioid is the most common and responds well to many treatments. Sarcomatoid and biphasic are rarer and more resistant to therapies.

Staging

Staging tracks malignant mesothelioma tumor growth and helps doctors make treatment plans and predict patient prognoses. The stages of mesothelioma range from 1 to 4 and are based on tumor size and location.

Early-stage mesothelioma is more confined to one site, while late-stage mesothelioma shows tumors spreading beyond the chest or abdominal cavity. Staging is an integral part of determining treatment.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

The standard treatment for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or multimodal therapy. Doctors develop a treatment plan based on cancer type, location and stage.

Some patients may be eligible for mesothelioma clinical trials that test newer therapies. Though not every mesothelioma treatment is suitable for each patient, most patients can benefit from palliative care to help manage symptoms.

Finding Mesothelioma Treatment Near You

Because mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, many patients are misdiagnosed or do not have access to specialized care. Finding a local mesothelioma treatment center is the best way to benefit from the latest therapies and improve a mesothelioma prognosis.

Mesothelioma cancer centers across the U.S. employ the top mesothelioma doctors who have years of experience treating patients, improving their prognoses and extending their life expectancies.

Top mesothelioma doctors across the U.S. include:

Mesothelioma Life Expectancy and Prognosis

The life expectancy for mesothelioma patients is about 12 months with treatment. About 10% of patients with pleural mesothelioma and 65% with peritoneal mesothelioma live for five years or longer. Prognosis refers to the overall outlook of a patient’s cancer based on their response to treatment.

Alongside cancer treatments, a healthier lifestyle and nutrient-rich diet can improve the quality of life with a malignant mesothelioma diagnosis. For example, quitting smoking and receiving flu and pneumonia vaccinations improves lung function and overall health.

Mesothelioma Support and Resources

Many free resources, such as medical webinars and support groups, help patients and families better understand and cope after a diagnosis. General support options, caregiver resources and financial assistance can lower your family’s emotional, physical and monetary burden.

Commonly Asked Questions About Mesothelioma

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that commonly develops in the thin tissue lining the lungs or abdomen. What makes this cancer unique is that it is caused almost exclusively by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers.

What’s the difference between mesothelioma and malignant mesothelioma?

The terms “mesothelioma” and “malignant mesothelioma” usually refer to the cancerous and aggressive form of the disease. Non-cancerous or benign mesothelioma tumors can also occur throughout the body but do not spread as quickly and do not typically return after surgery.

Is mesothelioma the same as lung cancer?

Mesothelioma is not a form of lung cancer. While both are types of cancer, mesothelioma grows on the pleura lining the outside of the lungs, diaphragm and chest cavity. Lung cancer develops within the lung space. Both diseases share similar symptoms, such as shortness of breath and chest pain, and can occur after inhaling asbestos fibers.

What causes mesothelioma other than asbestos?

Asbestos is the only proven cause of mesothelioma. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure from serving in the military or working jobs that involve handling products contaminated with asbestos.

Is malignant mesothelioma curable?

Mesothelioma is incurable, though researchers continue investigating new therapy options in clinical trials. Some patients live several years beyond the average life expectancy, and recent treatment advancements, such as immunotherapy, provide patients hope for an eventual cure.

Is there financial assistance for mesothelioma patients?

You may be eligible to seek compensation for mesothelioma from asbestos trust funds, lawsuits or VA claims. Financial assistance helps cover the cost of treatment expenses and lost wages. Speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer is the best way to learn about your legal options if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.