Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Causes
The cause is of course exposure which often occurs when it is work related; when the job site has asbestos particles like dust and fibre. Even simple home renovation can cause exposure if dealing with products which have asbestos.
Mesothelioma Definition
By definition, mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is almost always likely caused by a prior exposure to asbestos; an exposure which causes malignant cells to develop in the mesothelium which is the protective lining that covers most of the body's internal organs. The most common site for these cancers to develop is the pleura, which is the outer lining of the lungs and of the chest cavity. Other places it could occur include the peritoneum or the lining of the abdominal cavity and even in the pericardium which is a a sac that surrounds the heart.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosing the condition is difficult because the symptoms are similar to a lot of other conditions, but knowledge of one's medical history is important as it will reveal whether there was indeed exposure. Standard physical examinations and x-ray will reveal extent of the condition.
Mesothelioma Symptoms and Signs
The downside is that symptoms only appear about 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure to asbestos. Typical symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing and pain in the chest due to accumulated fluid in the pleural spaces. For peritoneal mesothelioma, symptoms can include weight loss, abdominal swelling and pain due to. Other symptoms are; bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread to other body parts, symptoms range from pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
Mesothelioma Treatment
The prognosis for the sudden appearance of the condition is not good; treatment using conventional therapies has proved to be inadequate and the mortality is high.