Pleural Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma – a cancer that affects the inner lining between the lungs and the chest cavity.
Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to the mineral asbestos. In most cases of mesothelioma, exposure occurs at a worksite where asbestos is present, but it may also occur in other areas with a high concentration of the mineral or from breathing in fibers from the clothing of someone working at a location with a high concentration of asbestos.
Mesothelioma is also known for its long latency period. That means that it may take anywhere from 15 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop, and there have been almost no reported cases of mesothelioma within a decade of exposure. As a result, mesothelioma is harder to diagnose and treat, because the development of symptoms is so far removed from the initial exposure. Also, many symptoms may not show up until the disease is already in its advanced stages.

Signs and Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

• Painful or difficulty breathing.
• Chest pain and/or lumps on the chest.
• Trouble swallowing.
• Persistent cough or coughing up blood.
• General fatigue and weight loss.

How is Pleural Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pleural mesothelioma is a process, as the symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other types of illnesses. It is very important that you tell your doctor right away if you or someone you are close to was exposed to asbestos, as this will alert the doctor that they should be looking for mesothelioma cancer.