Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that lines the internal organs. It most commonly develops in the lining of the lungs, but can also affect the lining of the abdomen, heart, and other organs. The main cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and industrial materials until its ban in the late 1970s. Mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning it can take decades for symptoms to appear after exposure to asbestos. As a result, the disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment difficult.

In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about mesothelioma – from its causes and symptoms to diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention methods. We hope this information will help raise awareness about this deadly disease and aid in early detection and treatment.

What is Mesothelioma?

Before we delve deeper into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of mesothelioma, let’s first understand what it is and how it develops.

Definition and Types of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the mesothelium, a protective membrane that covers and surrounds most of the body’s internal organs. The mesothelium produces a fluid that lubricates these organs, allowing them to move smoothly against each other.

There are three main types of mesothelioma based on the location of the tumor:

1. Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type, accounting for about 80% of all mesothelioma cases. It develops in the lining of the lungs, called the pleura. This type of mesothelioma is often associated with asbestos exposure.

2. Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum. It accounts for about 20% of all mesothelioma cases and is also commonly caused by asbestos exposure.

3. Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma, accounting for less than 1% of cases. It develops in the lining of the heart, called the pericardium, and is usually not associated with asbestos exposure.

How does Mesothelioma Develop?

Mesothelioma develops when the cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and start to divide uncontrollably. This results in the formation of tumors that can spread to other parts of the body. The main cause of this abnormal cell growth is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring minerals that are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals. Due to these properties, it was widely used in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, from the 1930s to the late 1970s. However, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause them to get lodged in the tissues of the mesothelium, leading to inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can result in changes to the DNA of the cells, causing them to grow abnormally and eventually develop into mesothelioma.

Causes of Mesothelioma

As mentioned earlier, the primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. However, there are other factors that can increase the risk of developing this cancer.

Asbestos Exposure

Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma. It is estimated that 80% of all mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos fibers can easily become airborne when disturbed, and when inhaled or ingested, they can get lodged in the mesothelium tissues. The longer a person is exposed to asbestos, the higher their risk of developing mesothelioma.

People who have worked in industries where asbestos was heavily used, such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, are at a higher risk of exposure. Additionally, those who have lived with someone who worked around asbestos or washed their work clothes are also at risk of secondary exposure.

Genetic Factors

Some genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma. These mutations can be inherited from parents or can occur spontaneously. However, it is important to note that even people without these mutations can still develop mesothelioma if exposed to asbestos.

Other Risk Factors

Other factors that may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma include:

• Age: Mesothelioma is more common in older adults, with the average age at diagnosis being 72 years.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma than women, likely due to occupational exposure.
• Smoking: Although smoking does not directly cause mesothelioma, it can increase the risk of developing lung cancer, which may lead to mesothelioma in smokers who have been exposed to asbestos.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild and easily overlooked, making it difficult to detect the disease. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms become more severe and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs and can cause the following symptoms:

1. Shortness of Breath

As the tumor grows, it can press against the lungs, making it difficult to expand them fully. This can cause shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.

2. Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma and is caused by irritation and inflammation of the pleura. The pain may be sharp, dull, or persistent and can worsen with deep breathing or coughing.

3. Persistent Cough

A persistent cough that does not go away even after treatment, or that gets worse over time, is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma. The cough may also produce blood or excessive mucus.

4. Fatigue

Difficulty breathing and other symptoms of mesothelioma can lead to fatigue and weakness in patients. This can make it challenging to perform daily activities and can significantly impact their quality of life.

5. Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including mesothelioma. As the cancer progresses, it can cause loss of appetite and difficulty eating, leading to weight loss.

Common Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen and can cause the following symptoms:

1. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma and is caused by inflammation and irritation of the peritoneum. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

2. Swelling of the Abdomen

The buildup of fluid in the abdomen, called ascites, is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma. The increased pressure from the fluid can cause swelling and discomfort in the abdomen.

3. Changes in Bowel Habits

Peritoneal mesothelioma can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to changes in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two.

4. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

As with pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma can also cause loss of appetite and weight loss due to difficulty eating and digestion problems.

Common Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart and can cause the following symptoms:

1. Chest Pain

Chest pain is a common symptom of pericardial mesothelioma and is caused by inflammation and irritation of the pericardium. The pain may be sharp, dull, or persistent and can worsen with deep breathing or coughing.

2. Heart Palpitations

Pericardial mesothelioma can cause irregular heartbeats as the tumor affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.

3. Difficulty Breathing

As with other types of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma can also lead to difficulty breathing due to pressure on the lungs from the growing tumor.

Diagnosis of Mesothelioma

Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging since its symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses. In addition, many people do not develop symptoms until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. As a result, diagnosis often happens when the cancer is in its later stages, making it more difficult to treat.

If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past or are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, your doctor may recommend the following diagnostic tests to confirm or rule out the disease.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests allow doctors to see inside the body and look for any abnormal growths or changes in the tissues. These tests may include:

• X-ray: This is often the first imaging test done to look for any abnormalities in the lungs.
• CT scan: A CT scan provides more detailed images of the chest and abdomen, making it useful for detecting mesothelioma in its early stages.
• MRI: An MRI uses radio waves and magnets to create detailed pictures of the body’s tissues. It can be helpful in detecting the spread of cancer to other organs.
• PET scan: A PET scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the body to highlight areas with abnormal cell growth. This can help determine the stage and extent of mesothelioma.

Biopsies

A biopsy is a procedure that involves removing a tissue sample from the affected area and examining it under a microscope to look for cancer cells. There are different types of biopsies that may be used to diagnose mesothelioma, including:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy: This involves using a thin needle to extract a small sample of tissue from the affected area for testing.
• Thoracoscopy or laparoscopy: These minimally invasive procedures involve inserting a thin tube with a camera attached through a small incision in the skin to view and collect tissue samples.
• Open biopsy: In this procedure, a larger incision is made in the skin, and a tissue sample is taken directly from the affected area.

Blood Tests

While there is no specific blood test that can diagnose mesothelioma, certain biomarkers can indicate the presence of the disease. These include soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRPs), fibulin-3, and osteopontin. Elevated levels of these biomarkers in the blood may suggest the presence of mesothelioma but are not conclusive on their own and require further testing.

Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

The treatment options for mesothelioma depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. The main goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms, control the spread of cancer, and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first-line treatment for mesothelioma, especially in its early stages. The type of surgery performed will depend on the location and extent of the cancer. Surgeries commonly used to treat mesothelioma include:

• Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D): This involves removing the lining of the lung affected by the cancer, as well as any visible tumors.
• Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): In this procedure, the entire lung affected by the cancer, as well as the surrounding tissue, is removed.
• Cytoreductive surgery with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): This combination surgery involves removing all visible tumors from the abdomen, followed by heated chemotherapy drugs to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing. It is often used in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy to increase the effectiveness of treatment. The drugs can be given intravenously or directly into the affected area. While chemotherapy can help control the growth of mesothelioma and relieve symptoms, it can also cause side effects such as nausea, hair loss, and fatigue.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams such as X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells or to relieve symptoms such as pain and difficulty breathing. Side effects of radiation therapy may include skin irritation, fatigue, and damage to healthy tissues near the affected area.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses medications that boost the body’s natural immune response to fight cancer. It has shown promising results in the treatment of mesothelioma, especially when combined with other treatments. The side effects of immunotherapy can vary depending on the type of medication used but may include fatigue, fever, and skin reactions.

Prognosis and Survival Rates

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer with a poor prognosis. The average life expectancy after diagnosis is around 12-21 months, but this can vary depending on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.

The survival rates for mesothelioma also depend on various factors such as age, gender, and type of treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for pleural mesothelioma is around 10%, while the 5-year survival rate for peritoneal mesothelioma is about 50%.

Prevention of Mesothelioma

The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that uses asbestos, or if your home contains asbestos-containing materials, follow these guidelines to reduce your risk of exposure:

• Use protective equipment: If you work in an industry where you are likely to come into contact with asbestos, make sure you use appropriate protective gear such as gloves, masks, and respirators.
• Follow safety protocols: If you work with or around asbestos, familiarize yourself with proper handling and disposal procedures to minimize the risk of exposure.
• Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials: If you suspect that your home or workplace contains asbestos, do not try to remove it yourself. Contact a professional asbestos removal company to handle it safely.
• Quit smoking: As mentioned earlier, smoking does not directly cause mesothelioma, but it can increase the risk of developing lung cancer, which may lead to mesothelioma in those exposed to asbestos.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer that has been linked to exposure to asbestos. It can take decades for symptoms to appear, making it difficult to diagnose and treat the disease in its early stages. However, with advancements in medical technology and ongoing research, there is hope for improved treatment options and increased survival rates in the future.

If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past or are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, seek medical attention immediately. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve your chances of survival. Remember to also follow preventive measures to reduce your risk of exposure to asbestos. Let us all work towards raising awareness about mesothelioma and supporting those who are affected by this devastating disease.