Thursday, December 10, 2009

Mesothelioma a Rare Disease

This is a uncommon form of cancer, commonly attached to exposure to asbestos. In Mesothelioma, cancerous cells develop in the mesothelium, a defensive lining that covers most of the bodies inner organs. The most common site for Mesothelioma is the outer lining of the lungs along with chest cavity (known as the pleura lining), but it may also occur in the lining of the abdominal cavity (also known as the peritoneum) or the outer lining of the heart (pericardium).

Individuals who develop Mesothelioma have typically worked in jobs where they were exposed to asbestos particles via airborne means, or by direct contract with contaminated materials used by loved ones or friends in such occupations.

Mesothelioma symptoms

It may take upwards of 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos for Mesothelioma symptoms to become apparent. Among the symptoms of Mesothelioma one might see, the primary two associated with plural cavity Mesothelioma are:

  • shortness of breath

  • pain in the chest - most likely due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space

Symptoms of Mesothelioma that are affecting the peritoneal cavity may include

  • weight loss

  • abdominal swelling

  • pain due to ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity).

  • bowel obstruction

  • blood clotting abnormalities

  • anemia

  • fever

If the cancer has spread then the symptoms may diversify as well. General symptoms of metastasized Mesothelioma may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.

All symptoms on this page may be caused by Mesothelioma, especially if the individual had a prior exposure to high levels of asbestos earlier in life. However, all of these symptoms can be caused by less serious conditions.

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