What Is Mesothelioma?

Understanding Malignant Mesothelioma - One of the Deadliest Forms of Cancer

mesothelium

Internal organs of human body are covered with a thin membrane. It is called mesothelium. The mesothelium has two layers. One layer covers the organ and the other layer forms a sac around the organ. In between the two layers there is lubricant fluid which allows the organs move without causing any friction so that our lungs and heart can move. There are different names for different membranes in our body. The mesothelium present in the chest cavity is popularly called as pleura. The mesothelium covering the abdomen is called peritoneum and pericardium is the membrane covering our heart.

Asbestos particles trigger the mesothelium cells to multiply without any order or control. The cells form a tumor and sometime may affect other organs of the body through lymph nodes.

It is generally found that the malignant Mesothelioma is common in men over 60, however one may come across in women and children. The clear reason for women and children malignant Mesothelioma is not well understood.

When one looks at malignant Mesothelioma it can be noticed that there are three distinct types. About 50% to 70% of the malignant Mesotheliomas have the best prognosis. It is called epithelioid. The other is called sarcomatoid type about 7% to 20% and the third type is called biphasic or mixed about 20% to 35%.

Generally malignant Mesothelioma starts in the chest cavity which is known as pleural Mesothelioma. When the asbestos particles are inhaled the first organ in the body that are affected are lungs. About 10% malignant Mesothelioma begins in the abdomen area which is called as the peritoneal Mesothelioma. It is very rare for malignant Mesothelioma to start in the pericardial region.

The treatment for all the types is the same. If the malignant Mesothelioma is found in just one place, surgery becomes a viable option. The doctors remove the tumor and the patient may experience relief. But sometimes the malignant Mesothelioma goes undiagnosed till it has spread to different parts of the body. In that case surgery is not a good option. Then the doctor may suggest chemo therapy or radiation.

The research is going on to look for alternative treatment for malignant Mesothelioma. Patients can consider clinical trials or can take part in cancer treatment research studies. So the patient can opt for conventional treatment or alternative treatment. If the malignant tumor is diagnosed in fairly advanced stage then the doctor may suggest the treatment to manage and ease the pain.

Malignant Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. The symptoms could be misleading and considered as respiratory condition. So it is a good idea to go for full physical check up if you have chronic cough and shortness of breath.