Mesothelioma: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer, but common symptoms include:

1. Chest pain: Chest pain or discomfort in the chest area is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma, which is the most common type of mesothelioma.
2. Coughing: Coughing is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma, and may produce mucus or blood.
3. Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing is a common symptom of pleural mesothelioma, as the tumor can compress the lungs and restrict breathing.
4. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of mesothelioma, which can be caused by the tumor’s impact on the body’s overall health.
5. Weight loss: Weight loss is a common symptom of mesothelioma, as the tumor can cause malnutrition and weight loss.
6. Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain or discomfort is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdominal cavity.
7. Swollen abdomen: A swollen abdomen is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma, as the tumor can cause fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity.
8. Constipation: Constipation is a common symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma, as the tumor can cause bowel obstruction or constipation.
9. Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of mesothelioma, which can be caused by the tumor’s impact on the digestive system.
10. Cancer-related symptoms: Mesothelioma can cause a range of cancer-related symptoms, including fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite.

It’s essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to consult with a doctor if you’re experiencing any unusual or persistent symptoms.

What are the causes of mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals that are commonly found in rocks and soil. Asbestos was widely used in the past in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, and mining, due to its heat-resistant and fire-resistant properties.

The most common cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos through:

1. Occupational exposure: People who worked in industries that used asbestos, such as construction workers, shipyard workers, and miners, are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma.
2. Second-hand exposure: People who lived with someone who worked with asbestos or were exposed to asbestos through contact with contaminated clothing or personal items are also at risk.
3. Environmental exposure: People who live near areas where asbestos has been released into the environment, such as near asbestos mines or factories, may also be at risk.
4. Lingering asbestos: Asbestos can remain in the air for years after it has been released, making it possible for people to be exposed long after the initial exposure.

The latency period for mesothelioma is typically 20-50 years, meaning that it can take decades for the cancer to develop after initial exposure to asbestos.

Other risk factors that may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma include:

• Genetic predisposition
• Family history of mesothelioma
• Smoking
• Radiation therapy

It’s essential to note that mesothelioma is a preventable disease, and exposure to asbestos is the primary cause. Efforts to reduce asbestos exposure have been made in many countries, but many people are still at risk due to past exposure.

How is the diagnosis of mesothelioma made?

The diagnosis of mesothelioma is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical imaging, and histopathological examination of tissue samples. Here are the steps involved in diagnosing mesothelioma:

1. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination is performed to assess the patient’s overall health and look for any signs of cancer.
2. Medical imaging: Medical imaging tests such as chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are used to evaluate the extent of the tumor and its spread.
3. Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of a tissue sample from the affected area for histopathological examination. There are several types of biopsies that can be performed, including:
   • Thoracoscopy: A biopsy is performed during a thoracoscopy procedure, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera and instruments through a small incision in the chest.
   • Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS): A VATS procedure involves making a small incision in the chest and using a camera and instruments to remove a tissue sample.
   • Open biopsy: An open biopsy involves making a larger incision in the chest and removing a tissue sample through open surgery.
4. Histopathological examination: The tissue sample is examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells and determine the type of cancer.
5. Immunohistochemistry: Immunohistochemistry testing is used to identify specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells, which can help diagnose mesothelioma.
6. Flow cytometry: Flow cytometry is a laboratory test that uses antibodies to detect specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells.
7. Cytogenetics: Cytogenetic testing is used to identify genetic abnormalities in cancer cells.

The diagnosis of mesothelioma is often confirmed through a combination of these tests, and may involve working with multiple specialists, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and pathologists.

What is the treatment for mesothelioma?

The treatment for mesothelioma depends on the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health. The primary goal of treatment is to control the growth of the tumor and alleviate symptoms.

Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for mesothelioma. The type of surgery depends on the location and size of the tumor:

1. Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): Removal of the affected lung, pleura, and surrounding tissue.
2. Pleurectomy/decortication (P/D): Removal of the lining of the lung (pleura) and surrounding tissue.
3. Cytoreductive surgery: Removal of as much of the tumor as possible.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is used to kill cancer cells and slow down tumor growth. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery.

1. Systemic chemotherapy: Chemotherapy medications are given through a vein or orally to target cancer cells throughout the body.
2. Intrapleural chemotherapy: Chemotherapy medications are directly injected into the pleural space to target cancer cells in the chest cavity.

Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used:

1. External beam radiation therapy: Radiation is delivered from outside the body using a machine.
2. Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT): Radiation is delivered during surgery to target cancer cells in real-time.

Palliative care: Palliative care is focused on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life. It may include:

1. Pain management: Medications to manage pain and discomfort.
2. Symptom management: Medications and other therapies to manage symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
3. Nutrition support: Enteral nutrition or parenteral nutrition may be necessary to support adequate nutrition.

Clinical trials: Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or combinations of treatments for mesothelioma. Participating in a clinical trial may offer access to experimental treatments and help advance our understanding of this disease.

It’s essential to work with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, including oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiation oncologists, and palliative care specialists, to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

What is the mortality rate for mesothelioma?

The mortality rate for mesothelioma is relatively high, and it is one of the most aggressive and deadly forms of cancer. The 5-year survival rate for mesothelioma is typically around 10-20%, which means that about 10-20% of patients with mesothelioma will survive for at least 5 years after diagnosis.

The mortality rate for mesothelioma varies depending on several factors, including:

1. Type of mesothelioma: Pleural mesothelioma (the most common type) has a better prognosis than peritoneal mesothelioma (the second most common type).
2. Stage of disease: The stage of the disease at diagnosis affects the prognosis. Patients with earlier-stage disease have a better prognosis than those with later-stage disease.
3. Treatment options: Patients who receive treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, have a better prognosis than those who do not receive treatment.
4. Age and overall health: Patients who are older or have other health problems may have a worse prognosis.
5. Location of the tumor: Tumors located in the pleura (the lining surrounding the lungs) tend to have a better prognosis than those located in the peritoneum (the lining surrounding the abdominal cavity).

Here are some general survival rates for mesothelioma:

• Pleural mesothelioma:
  • 5-year survival rate: 10-20%
  • Median survival time: 12-18 months
• Peritoneal mesothelioma:
  • 5-year survival rate: 5-10%
  • Median survival time: 6-12 months

It’s essential to note that these are general statistics, and individual outcomes can vary widely depending on various factors. It’s crucial to work with a healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan and to monitor progress closely.