Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma – The Basics Explained
Posted on May 05, 2010 under cancer | No CommentMalignant pleural mesothelioma is a form of cancer, relatively rare in occurrence. It develops in the mesothelium, which is the lining that protects most of the body’s internal organs. It usually takes place in the pleura, which is the outer lining of the lungs. The condition may also occur in other forms and locations such as the heart and its surrounding sac, the pericardium.
What causes malignant pleural mesothelioma? Those most at risk are people who have jobs that have led to them frequently inhaling, or be being exposed to, asbestos fiber / dust. The family members of those doing such jobs are also at risk, because the fibers and dust are bought into the family home. Though uncommon, it has also been known for people who have never had any contact with asbestos to develop this type of cancer. It can also be attributed to irradiation, Thorotrast, and the inhalation of certain fibrous silicates.
What are the signs and symptoms? The most common symptoms are chest pains, coughing and shortness of breath. Fluid building up in the lungs is what causes such symptoms. There also may be fatigue, anemia, wheezing, hoarseness, or blood in the sputum or coughed-out fluid. If it gets to an extreme case, tumors may be present, and cause the lung to collapse or the condition to spread to other parts of the body. Signs and symptoms usually appear twenty to fifty years after exposure to asbestos.
How is a diagnosis made? A chest x-ray or CT scan may point to the possibility of having malignant pleural mesothelioma. The diagnosis can be confirmed through a biopsy or a microscopic exam.
What treatment options are available? Surgery may be used, drugs (chemotherapy) may be used, and radiation therapy may be used. There are two types of surgery – pleurectomy or extrapleural pneumonectomy. The first of those is typically used if the disease is still in its early stages. It works best when combined with other procedures, such as immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy.
Not everyone is a good candidate for extrapleural pneumonectomy. Your doctor may advise you against taking this course of action. You will have to consult your doctor for advice if you fit the patient selection criteria. You must pass the liver function and renal function tests because it is not advised to go through with the procedure if you have liver or kidney disease.
If you find yourself afflicted with malignant pleural mesothelioma, it is always best to consult your physician to talk about your concerns and which treatment options he recommends for you.
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