Mesothelioma is
a rare type of lungs cancer that occurs in the thin layer of cells lining the body's
internal organs, known as the mesothelium.
There are three known types of
mesothelioma:
- Pleural mesothelioma is the most common
form of the disease, accounting for roughly 70% of cases, and occurs in the
lining of the lung known as the pleura.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the
lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum.
- Pericardial
mesothelioma originates in the pericardium, which lines the heart.
Mesothelioma Symptoms:
An individual may be at risk to develop
mesothelioma if he/she was exposed to asbestos in the workplace or at
home. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and the
inhalation of asbestos particles. In most cases, mesothelioma
symptoms will not appear in an individual exposed to asbestos until many
years after the exposure has occurred. Those with a past asbestos exposure
history experiencing symptoms should consult a physician with experience in
accurately diagnosing mesothelioma. The earlier mesothelioma is diagnosed,
the more likely it is to be caught at an early stage. At earlier stages of
mesothelioma progression, more treatment options are available and oftentimes a
better prognosis is given.
