Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the thin layer of tissue that covers most of your internal organs, called the mesothelium. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals naturally found in rocks and soil that form long, thin, very strong fibers. Mesothelioma can develop in different parts of the body, including the tissue that surrounds the lungs (pleura), the abdomen (peritoneum), around the heart, and around the testicles.
Symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on where the cancer occurs, and they are not specific to this disease. Early symptoms of mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and a dry cough, are similar to many other lung conditions. Other symptoms may include lumps under the skin on the chest, tiredness, weight loss, a swollen abdomen, pain in the abdomen, and nausea. If any persistent signs and symptoms seem unusual or bothersome, it is important to ask a doctor to evaluate them.
Mesothelioma treatments are available, but for many people with mesothelioma, a cure is not possible. Doctors divide mesothelioma into different types based on what part of the mesothelium is affected, and treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Treatment may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. Survival depends on many factors, including the stage and type of mesothelioma.
In summary, mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It can develop in different parts of the body, and symptoms vary depending on where the cancer occurs. Treatment options are available, but a cure is not always possible.
