Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is a serious illness that can sometimes result after exposure to asbestos fibres. Perhaps not a generally well-known illness, mesothelioma is actually a rare form of cancer that is usually only diagnosed at around 30 years following contact with asbestos.

The earliest evidence of mesothelioma dates back to 1870 but it wasn’t until 1935 that the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma was first suggested, with the link finally being proved in 1960.

Mesothelioma was named after the part of the body that it affects - namely the mesothelium, which is a fine membrane lying on the inside of the chest cavity, and which also lines the abdomen, heart and lungs.

Instances of mesothelioma found on the chest wall are described as ‘pleural mesothelioma’ and those affecting the abdomen are referred to as ‘peritoneal mesothelioma’, with the former affliction being by far the most common.

Causes

If inhaled or swallowed, asbestos fibres can easily get stuck inside the body. As a natural defence, the body attempts to get rid of the alien substance but this is a futile exercise which only causes inflammation, eventual thickening of the mesothelium and a build up of fluid.

Diagnosis

Mesothelioma is not easy to diagnose, especially in the early stages but the most common symptoms are cited as breathlessness, chest pain, tiredness and weight loss. Doctors use a variety of methods to try and identify the illness such as CT, MRI, PET and ultrasound scans as well as cell, tissue and fluid analysis.

Once the disease has been confirmed, a program of treatment is agreed upon depending on factors such as the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, the patient’s level of fitness and also some reference to the patient’s preferred option.

Treatment

Once the disease has been confirmed, a program of treatment is agreed upon depending on factors such as the type of mesothelioma, the stage of the disease, the patient’s level of fitness and also some reference to the patient’s preferred option.

Treatments on offer currently include radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery, symptom control and a combination of some or all of the above. There is also ongoing research and development into the disease and consequently patients may choose to become involved in pioneering clinical trials.

Still somewhat of a mystery, it is not known why some people develop mesothelioma and others don’t but we do know that smoking is not a factor in the development of the disease. There is currently no cure for the illness.

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