Mesothelioma – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

Mesothelioma is a fast-growing cancer that develops in the mesothelium, a thin tissue layer covering various internal organs. This aggressive cancer most commonly affects the tissue surrounding the lungs, known as pleural mesothelioma.

However, it can also develop in tissues around the abdomen, heart, and testicles. The name “mesothelioma” (pronounced me-zoe-thee-lee-O-muh) is sometimes called malignant mesothelioma in medical contexts.

This cancer progresses rapidly and is often fatal. While treatment options exist, many patients face a challenging prognosis as there is currently no definitive cure for many people diagnosed with this condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Mesothelioma symptoms vary depending on where the cancer begins in the body. Each type affects different areas and causes distinct health problems.

Pleural mesothelioma (affecting lung tissue) may cause:

• Chest pain
• Painful coughing
• Breathing difficulties
• Lumps under chest skin
• Extreme tiredness
• Unexplained weight loss

Peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting abdominal tissue) often includes:

• Stomach pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Feeling sick to your stomach
• Constant fatigue
• Weight loss without dieting

Less common types include:

1. Pericardial mesothelioma – affects tissue around the heart, causing breathing problems and chest pain.
2. Tunica vaginalis mesothelioma – appears around the testicles, usually first noticed as swelling or a lump.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you notice any concerning symptoms, especially breathing problems, chest pain, or unusual lumps, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. Early detection improves treatment options.

Causes

Mesothelioma develops when cells in the mesothelium (the thin tissue layer covering many internal organs) undergo DNA changes. These DNA alterations disrupt normal cell functioning in several ways:

• DNA mutations tell cells to multiply rapidly instead of at normal rates
• Cancer cells continue living beyond their natural lifespan
• Excessive cell growth forms tumors that damage healthy tissue
• These cells may eventually spread (metastasize) to other body parts

Asbestos exposure is widely recognized as the primary risk factor for mesothelioma. However, not everyone diagnosed with this cancer has a known history of asbestos contact, suggesting other factors may contribute to its development.

When DNA in mesothelial cells becomes damaged, it changes the instructions these cells follow. Unlike healthy cells that grow and die in an orderly way, mesothelioma cells multiply uncontrollably and resist normal cell death signals.

The resulting overgrowth of abnormal cells creates tumors that can invade nearby tissues.

As the disease progresses, cancer cells sometimes break away from the original tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to establish new tumors elsewhere in the body.

Scientists continue researching additional potential causes for cases where asbestos exposure doesn’t appear to be a factor.

Risk Factors

Exposure to asbestos stands as the primary risk factor for developing mesothelioma. This natural mineral, valued for its strength and heat resistance, has been widely used in construction materials, automotive parts, and various products including insulation, flooring, and shingles.

When asbestos materials are disturbed during mining or removal, they release tiny fibers into the air. If breathed in or swallowed, these fibers can settle in the lungs or stomach, potentially leading to mesothelioma over time.

The disease typically takes 15-40 years to develop after asbestos exposure.

Several factors may increase your mesothelioma risk:

• Direct Asbestos Exposure: Working with asbestos products or in environments with asbestos significantly raises the risk.
• Household Contact: Living with someone who works with asbestos can be dangerous, as workers may bring fibers home on clothing and skin.
• Genetic Factors: Having a parent, sibling, or child with mesothelioma might indicate a higher personal risk.
• Previous Chest Radiation: Cancer patients who received radiation to the chest area may face an increased risk.

Not everyone exposed to asbestos develops mesothelioma, suggesting other factors likely play a role in disease development. Scientists continue to study why some exposed individuals develop the disease while others don’t.

The relationship between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma remains complex. The long delay between exposure and diagnosis makes it challenging for researchers to fully understand the exact mechanisms that trigger the disease.

Complications

Pleural mesothelioma can lead to several health issues as it grows within the chest cavity. Patients often experience breathing difficulties due to the tumor pressing on the lungs.

Chest pain is a common symptom that worsens as the disease progresses. Some patients may have trouble swallowing when the cancer affects nearby structures.

The disease can cause nerve and spinal cord compression, resulting in significant pain. Pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs) frequently develops, making it harder to breathe as the fluid puts pressure on the lung tissue.

Ways to Prevent Mesothelioma

Know Your Workplace Exposure Risks

Many people who develop mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos at work. Several jobs have higher risk of asbestos exposure, including:

• Mining workers
• Electrical technicians
• Plumbing professionals
• Pipe installation workers
• Insulation installers
• Workers in shipyards
• Building demolition crews
• Auto brake technicians
• Certain military personnel
• Home renovation workers

Don’t hesitate to ask your employer about possible asbestos risks in your workplace. Understanding your exposure risks is the first step to protection.

Follow Workplace Safety Guidelines

Always use the protective equipment provided by your employer. This might include:

• Respirators
• Protective clothing
• Safety goggles

You may need to change clothes and wash thoroughly before eating or returning home. This prevents bringing asbestos fibers home with you. Speak with your healthcare provider about additional protection methods for your specific work situation.

Handle Home Asbestos Safely

Homes built before the 1980s often contain asbestos materials. In most cases, leaving asbestos undisturbed is safer than removing it.

Disturbing asbestos can release harmful fibers into the air. These fibers can be breathed in, which is dangerous for your health.

For home safety:

1. Consult with certified asbestos detection professionals
2. Consider professional air quality testing
3. Never attempt DIY asbestos removal
4. Only hire licensed asbestos removal experts if removal is necessary

Professional handling ensures your family stays safe from dangerous asbestos exposure.