Summary about Disease
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers most of the body's internal organs. The most common site is the pleura (lining of the lungs and chest wall), but it can also occur in the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen), pericardium (lining around the heart), and tunica vaginalis (lining around the testicles). Mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location of the mesothelioma:
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lungs): Chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion), weight loss, fatigue.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdomen): Abdominal pain, swelling, fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites), nausea, vomiting, constipation, weight loss.
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart): Chest pain, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), difficulty breathing, fatigue.
Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis (Testicles): A lump or swelling in the testicle.
Causes
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can become lodged in the mesothelium and, over time, cause inflammation and cellular changes that lead to cancer. Other factors such as radiation exposure and zeolites may play a smaller role, but asbestos is the dominant cause.
Medicine Used
Treatment for mesothelioma typically involves a combination of modalities, including:
Chemotherapy: Common drugs include pemetrexed, cisplatin, and carboplatin.
Surgery: Surgical options may involve removing the tumor, pleurectomy/decortication (removing parts of the lining of the lung and tumor), or extrapleural pneumonectomy (removing the affected lung, part of the diaphragm, and pericardium).
Radiation Therapy: Used to target and kill cancer cells in a specific area.
Immunotherapy: Drugs like nivolumab and ipilimumab can help the immune system fight the cancer.
Targeted Therapies: Targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
Is Communicable
Mesothelioma is NOT communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
The most important precaution is to avoid exposure to asbestos. This includes:
Occupational Safety: Following safety regulations and using protective equipment in industries where asbestos is present (e.g., construction, demolition, shipbuilding).
Asbestos Abatement: Hiring qualified professionals to remove asbestos-containing materials from homes and buildings.
Awareness: Being aware of potential sources of asbestos in older buildings and products.
How long does an outbreak last?
Mesothelioma is not an outbreak. It is a cancer that develops over many years following asbestos exposure.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Medical History and Physical Exam: Evaluating risk factors and symptoms.
Imaging Tests: Chest X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans to visualize the tumor and its extent.
Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken (usually through a needle biopsy or surgery) and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of mesothelioma.
Fluid Analysis: If there is fluid buildup around the lungs or abdomen, a sample may be taken and analyzed for cancer cells.
Timeline of Symptoms
The latency period between asbestos exposure and the development of mesothelioma can be very long, typically ranging from 20 to 50 years. Symptoms may develop gradually over months or years, initially being mild and nonspecific, then progressively worsening as the cancer grows.
Important Considerations
Early Detection: Due to the long latency period and non-specific symptoms, early detection is challenging. However, people with a history of asbestos exposure should be vigilant about monitoring their health and reporting any concerning symptoms to their doctor.
Prognosis: The prognosis for mesothelioma is generally poor, as it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. However, treatment can help to improve quality of life and extend survival.
Specialized Care: Mesothelioma is a complex cancer that requires specialized care. Patients should seek treatment at a medical center with experience in treating mesothelioma.
Legal Considerations: Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma may have legal options for compensation if their exposure to asbestos was due to negligence on the part of employers or other parties.