Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, an aggressive and deadly form of cancer that is the result of asbestos exposure.
Asbestos and Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma develops in the pleura—two layers of the protective tissue known as mesothelium that surround the lungs—and is caused by asbestos exposure. The particles from asbestos fibers are difficult for the body to filter, and with progressive exposure these asbestos particulates accumulate in the pleura, where they lead to inflammation and scarring.
Over time, the asbestos particles contribute to genetic changes in the cellular makeup of the pleura, causing the cells to become cancerous. As mesothelioma tumors form, fluid begins to build up between the layers of pleura, which puts pressure on the lungs and results in chest pain and impaired breathing.
Pleural mesothelioma accounts for approximately three-quarters of all mesothelioma cases. Although mesothelioma tumors tend to spread throughout the body, they most often originate in the pleura.
Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms
Like other types of mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma is difficult to detect and treat in its early stages because symptoms are rarely present until the cancer is in an advanced stage, sometimes as many as 60 years after contact with asbestos occurred. Diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma is further complicated by the fact that it shares many symptoms with conditions such as influenza and pneumonia.
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include but are not limited to:
- Chronic dry or raspy cough
- Pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs)
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the chest, rib area and/or lower back
- Persistent fatigue
- Lumps under the skin on the chest
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of appetite
There is no cure for pleural mesothelioma, but there are mesothelioma treatment options that can improve a patient’s quality of life and prolong life expectancy.
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