Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops from the protective lining covering many of the body’s internal organs. This lining is called the mesothelium. The most common site of occurrence is the pleura, but it may also occur in the peritoneum, the pericardium, or the tunica vaginalis. Symptoms include chest wall pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, blood in the sputum, abdominal pain, weight loss, bowel function problems, blood clots in veins, low blood sugar levels, pleural effusions and severe ascites.
Asbestos is a major risk factor for Mesothelioma. Irradiation, intrapleural thorium dioxide, inhalation of fibrous silicates, like erionite, is some other causes of Mesothelioma. Environmental exposure, occupational hazards, secondary exposure and asbestos in buildings add to the fray. Diagnosis is performed with a review of the patient’s medical history. Chest X-ray, lung function tests, biopsy, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopy help greatly. Treatment includes many factors. Surgery, where pneumonectomy is performed, radiation therapy, chemotherapy with use of choice drugs like cisplatin and pemetrexed, immunotherapy and multimodality therapy is done.
Asbestos is a major risk factor for Mesothelioma. Irradiation, intrapleural thorium dioxide, inhalation of fibrous silicates, like erionite, is some other causes of Mesothelioma. Environmental exposure, occupational hazards, secondary exposure and asbestos in buildings add to the fray. Diagnosis is performed with a review of the patient’s medical history. Chest X-ray, lung function tests, biopsy, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopy help greatly. Treatment includes many factors. Surgery, where pneumonectomy is performed, radiation therapy, chemotherapy with use of choice drugs like cisplatin and pemetrexed, immunotherapy and multimodality therapy is done.
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