The internal organs of the body are encased in two layers of tissue that have a lubricating fluid running through the center. Mesothelium enables organs like the lungs and heart to expand and contract easily against surrounding tissues. Mesothelioma develops when the cells of the mesothelium divide uncontrollably and become abnormal.
Features
The peritoneum is the mesothelial tissue that surrounds the organs in the abdomen, and the pleura is the layer that lines the chest cavity and the lungs. These are generally the first two areas that get hit with mesothelioma. It can then spread to other areas of the body, a process known as "metastasizing." According to the National Cancer Institute, mesothelioma is rare and there are approximately 2,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
Risk Factors
Asbestos is a material that is used for the production of insulation, flooring, shingles, brakes and cement. People who are exposed to breathing in asbestos for long periods of time are susceptible to getting mesothelioma. After being exposed to asbestos, it can take up to 30 years or more before mesothelioma can appear.
Symptoms
Shortness of breath is one of the main symptoms that is seen with mesothelioma. This can be accompanied with pain in the chest, pain in the abdomen, painful coughing, unexplained weight loss and abdominal swelling.
Diagnosis
Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose being that it is rare and it can to be resemble other diseases. After a medical history is done, the doctor will do a physical exam that includes X-rays, MRIs, lung function tests and biopsies.
Treatment
The problem with mesothelioma is the fact that it is usually diagnosed in a late stage. The treatments are geared more towards making you as comfortable as possible than curing it altogether. When mesothelioma is caught early, surgery can be performed. Chemotherapy and radiation are also used to kill cancer cells and prevent it from spreading.
Prevention/Solution
If you are constantly exposed to asbestos, you can help reduce your risk for getting mesothelioma by taking some preventive measures. Wear protective breathing masks, change your work clothes often and take frequent showers to wash asbestos particles off of your body.
Identification
Although smoking is not to blame for mesothelioma, it can increase your risks of getting it if you are exposed to asbestos on a regular basis.
