Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue covering the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other organs. The most common form is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs, followed by peritoneal mesothelioma, which occurs in the abdomen. Mesothelioma is strongly linked to asbestos exposure and is known for its long latency period, meaning symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure.
Mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers become trapped in the body, leading to inflammation, genetic damage, and eventually tumor formation. The cancer is difficult to diagnose in its early stages due to nonspecific symptoms and its rarity.
Key Points:
Rare but aggressive – It is an uncommon cancer with a high mortality rate.
Long latency period – Symptoms may take 20-50 years to develop.
Strongly linked to asbestos exposure – The primary cause in most cases.
Difficult to treat – Often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment complex.
Affects multiple areas – Can develop in the lungs (pleural), abdomen (peritoneal), heart (pericardial), or testicles (testicular mesothelioma).
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a mineral once widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing.
Risk Factors:
Occupational exposure – Workers in construction, insulation, mining, and shipyards have the highest risk.
Environmental exposure – Living near asbestos mines or using asbestos-containing products.
Secondhand exposure – Family members of workers exposed to asbestos.
Genetic predisposition – Certain genetic mutations may increase susceptibility.
Radiation exposure – Rarely, radiation treatments to the chest or abdomen can lead to mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma symptoms vary depending on the affected area and may resemble other common illnesses.
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs):
Persistent cough
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Difficulty swallowing
Swelling in the face and arms
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen):
Abdominal pain and swelling
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Bowel obstruction
Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart):
Irregular heartbeat
Chest pain
Heart palpitations
Fluid buildup around the heart (pericardial effusion)
Testicular Mesothelioma (Testes):
Swelling or lumps in the testicles
Pain in the scrotum
Mesothelioma is categorized based on its location and cell type.
By Location:
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs): The most common type (80-90% of cases).
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen): Second most common type, affecting the peritoneum.
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart): Rare and difficult to diagnose.
Testicular Mesothelioma (Testes): The rarest form.
By Cell Type:
Epithelioid Mesothelioma: The most treatable type, accounting for 70% of cases.
Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma: More aggressive and resistant to treatment.
Biphasic Mesothelioma: A mix of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells.
Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging because its symptoms mimic those of other conditions.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Imaging Tests: X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to detect abnormal growths.
Biopsy: Removal of tissue samples for microscopic examination.
Blood Tests: May detect biomarkers associated with mesothelioma.
Thoracoscopy or Laparoscopy: Minimally invasive procedures to examine the lungs or abdomen.
Pulmonary Function Tests: Assess lung function if pleural mesothelioma is suspected.
Treatment depends on the cancer stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Because mesothelioma is often diagnosed late, treatment usually focuses on prolonging life and alleviating symptoms.
Surgery
Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP): Removal of a lung, part of the diaphragm, and surrounding tissues.
Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D): Removal of the pleural lining and tumors while preserving the lung.
Cytoreductive Surgery: For peritoneal mesothelioma, removing visible tumors from the abdomen.
Chemotherapy
Most common treatment to slow cancer progression.
Drugs like cisplatin and pemetrexed are used to kill cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays to shrink tumors and relieve pain.
Used as a palliative treatment in later stages.
Immunotherapy
Boosts the immune system to fight cancer cells.
Drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab have shown promise.
Targeted Therapy
Focuses on specific cancer cell mutations to stop growth.
Still under research for mesothelioma.
Palliative Care
Manages symptoms like pain and breathing difficulties.
Includes medications, oxygen therapy, and fluid drainage procedures.
Mesothelioma has a poor prognosis due to its late detection. Survival rates vary based on cancer type and stage.
Survival Rates:
Localized Mesothelioma: 5-year survival rate is around 20%.
Regional Spread: 5-year survival rate drops to 10%.
Distant Metastasis: 5-year survival rate is less than 5%.
Early detection and aggressive treatment can improve outcomes, but the average life expectancy after diagnosis is 12-21 months.
Although mesothelioma cannot always be prevented, steps can be taken to reduce exposure to asbestos.
Preventive Measures:
Avoid workplaces with asbestos exposure or wear protective gear.
Follow safety regulations for asbestos removal and handling.
Inspect older homes and buildings for asbestos before renovations.
Do not disturb asbestos-containing materials without professional assistance.
Regular health check-ups for individuals with a history of asbestos exposure.
Coping with mesothelioma requires medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support.
Coping Strategies:
Regular follow-ups and monitoring.
Nutrition plans to maintain strength.
Pain management therapies.
Support groups and counseling for emotional well-being.
Light exercise to improve mobility and stamina.