Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive cancer primarily associated with asbestos exposure. It occurs in the mesothelium, a thin layer of tissue that covers most internal organs, with the most common site being the pleura, the protective lining of the lungs. While it predominantly affects the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), it can also originate in the peritoneum surrounding the abdominal cavity (peritoneal mesothelioma) or, more rarely, in the pericardium around the heart (pericardial mesothelioma) or the tunica vaginalis in the testicles. The disease is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells, which can cause damage to surrounding tissues and impair organ function.

Diagnosis of mesothelioma is challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or abdominal swelling, which tend to appear in later stages of the disease. Imaging tests, biopsies, and histological examinations are essential for a definitive diagnosis. Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or multimodal therapy, which combines several treatments. Prognosis is generally poor, with survival often limited to months or a few years post-diagnosis, largely depending on the disease's stage at the time of detection and the patient's overall health. Unfortunately, as mesothelioma is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage, treatment is often focused on symptom management and improving quality of life.