Malignant mesothelioma, also known as simply mesothelioma, is a cancer that develops in the lining of the chest or abdomen. This lining is called the mesothelium, and it covers many organs in the body. If mesothelioma develops in the lining of the chest, near the lungs, it is called pleural mesothelioma, and if it develops in the abdomen, it is called peritoneal mesothelioma.
Significance
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and the National Cancer Institute estimates that there are only about 2,000 new cases of the disease diagnosed each year in the United States. It is diagnosed more often in men than women, and though it can occur at any age, older individuals are more likely to be at risk. According to the American Cancer Society, whites and Hispanics/Latinos are diagnosed more often with the cancer than African-Americans or Asian Americans. Individuals exposed to asbestos are at higher risk of later developing mesothelioma.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mesothelioma may not be apparent for decades after exposure to asbestos. These symptoms include chest pain, weight loss, abdominal distention, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, and fever, according to the National Cancer Institute. Since these symptoms can be signs of other illnesses, if you are having these symptoms for an extended period of time, see your doctor for appropriate diagnosis.
Diagnosis
Because the symptoms of mesothelioma can be symptoms of other illnesses, a thorough diagnostic workup is needed for a definitive diagnosis of the disease. Tests to diagnose mesothelioma include a physical exam, x-rays, CT scan, MRI and a biopsy of tissue. Once the cancer is diagnosed, staging is done to see if the cancer has spread to any other organs in the body. Staging can also help with planning treatment and developing a prognosis.
Treatment
There are three standard treatments for mesothelioma: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, according to the National Cancer Institute. Treatment may include one or more of these options, depending on the extent of the disease, the location of the cancer, and the patient's general health. Surgery is often used to treat mesothelioma, and it may include removing part of the lining in the chest or abdomen, or even removal of a lung, depending on where the cancer is. Radiation is used in the treatment of mesothelioma to relieve symptoms caused by the cancer and alleviate any pain. Chemotherapy is commonly used in advanced mesothelioma.
Clinical Trials
Because mesothelioma is such a rare cancer, many patients with mesothelioma participate in clinical trials. In 2009, clinical trials, according to the National Cancer Institute, include placing chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen during surgery for mesothelioma, and also the use of biologic therapy, which works with the patient's immune system.
