What
is
Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the chest
(the pleura), the lining of the heart (the pericardium) and/or
the lining of the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum).
How do you get
Mesothelioma?
In most cases of mesothelioma, people have worked in jobs that
exposed them to asbestos. Other people who have acquired mesothelioma
have been exposed to asbestos and have not known it. Sometimes
an exposure to asbestos for just a few months can result in
mesothelioma many years later.
What are symptoms of Mesothelioma?
Often times in the early stages of mesothelioma, symptoms may
be non-specific and lead to a diagnosis of pneumonia, or a delayed
diagnosis all together.
Pleural Effusion
One of the most common symptoms of mesothelioma is a pleural
effusion. This is an accumulation of fluid between the membranes
of the chest wall and of the lungs. In cases of mesothelioma,
these membranes are covered with mesothelial cells. Under normal
circumstances, these membranes produce a small amount of fluid
that acts as a lubricant between the chest wall and the lungs.
Effusion occurs when too much fluid is produced.
Shortness of Breath
As the amount of fluid increases, a person may experience shortness
of breath. This is known as dyspnea. This shortness of breath
can be accompanied by mild or sharp chest pains and/or a dry
cough.
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
Diagnosing mesothelioma may require a chest x-ray, CT scan,
ultra-sound or fluid sampling.
See your doctor about Mesothelioma.
If you suspect you or a loved one may be suffering from
Mesothelioma,
do not put it off any longer. See a doctor as soon as possible.
Like all cancers, the earlier the diagnosis, the better the
prognosis for your treatment and recovery.
Click
here for more information on the treatment of Mesothelioma. |
