Exposure to the chemical asbestos significantly increases one’s risk of developing mesothelioma, and it is for this reason, mesothelioma is also called ‘asbestos cancer’.
Overview
Mesothelioma is a condition wherein cancer forms in the thin protective layer of tissues (mesothelium) present on the majority of the internal organs. Mesothelioma is aggressive cancer, which is also very challenging to treat. In most cases, mesotheliomas are detected in their advanced stages.
Exposure to the chemical asbestos significantly increases one’s risk of developing mesothelioma, and it is for this reason, mesothelioma is also called ‘asbestos cancer’.
Types of Mesothelioma
Based on the region of their occurrence, mesotheliomas are classified into:
- 1. Pleural Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma that occurs in the tissues layering the lungs is called pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common mesothelioma type.
- 2. Peritoneal Mesothelioma: This mesothelioma type affects the tissues that layer the abdomen.
- 3. Pericardial Mesothelioma: Pericardial mesothelioma affects the mesothelium of the heart. This is an extremely rare condition.
- 4. Testicular Mesothelioma: This cancer type affects the cells present in the outer layer of the testicles (tunica vaginalis). Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest form of mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
The symptoms of this condition differ based on the location of its origin. Pleural mesothelioma, which is the most common type of mesothelioma, can have the following symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath caused due to excess accumulation of fluid in the pleura
- Extreme tiredness
- Painful cough
- Formation of unusual masses of tissues under the skin of the chest
- Unintentional weight loss
Peritoneal mesothelioma may cause the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Lethargy
- Appetite loss
- Unintentional weight loss
- Nausea
- Change in bowel movements – constipation and diarrhoea
Pericardial mesothelioma may cause chest pain and breathing difficulties, and testicular mesothelioma, on the other hand, may lead to the swelling of the testicle.
Causes of Mesothelioma
The exact cause for the occurrence of mesothelioma is unknown. However, a few major risk factors have been identified:
- Exposure to Asbestos: Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. Those who have had prolonged exposure to asbestos are at a higher risk of getting mesothelioma. Living with someone who works with asbestos can also increase the risk of this disease.
- Exposure to Zeolites: Zeolites are a class of minerals that are chemically related to asbestos, and prolonged exposure to this mineral can also increase one’s risk of developing mesothelioma.
- A Family History of Mesothelioma: Having a close relative who is diagnosed with mesothelioma is also a risk factor for this disease.
- History of Radiation Therapy to the Chest Region: Those who have received radiation therapy for cancers in the chest region could also be at a higher risk of developing this disease.