Mesothelium is the name given to thin layer tissue that covers most of your internal organs and mesothelioma is a rare cancer that develops on this layer. It is one of the most aggressive types of cancer. This deadly cancer cannot be cured and in most of the cases it is diagnosed only in the advanced stage. When cancerous cells grow on the tissue surrounding the lungs it is known as pleural mesothelioma and if it develops on the tissues of the abdomen it is called peritoneal mesothelioma. Exact cause of mesothelioma is not known, but asbestos exposure for long term can increase the risk. Once the symptoms start appearing it indicates that disease has already progressed.
Mesothelioma Symptoms :
For pleural mesothelioma, the affected person may have symptoms of persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, clotting of blood and loss of weight (without taking effort). Pleura is the covering layer of lungs which is filled with fluid causing breathing difficulty.
For peritoneal mesothelioma, the person may get severe abdominal cramps, swelling of abdomen, lumps in the abdomen and weight loss. Symptoms may occur even after 20-40 years of exposure to asbestos. For some cases, cancer cells can metastasize spreading to other body parts. Each year about 3000 fresh cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the USA alone.
Causes :
Exact cause of mesothelioma is not known. It is believed to occur due to defective genetic mutation. Asbestos exposure can increase the risk factor for getting this deadly cancer. Tiny molecules of asbestos fiber are released into the air which can be inhaled easily. Exposure to erionite, exposure to radiation of high doses and genetic factor can cause mesothelioma.