Mesothelioma: What It Is

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that starts in the mesothelium, the thin lining that covers and protects many internal organs. It most often affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall, but it can also develop in the abdomen, heart area, or, more rarely, around the testicles.

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Quick Scoop

The main cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Symptoms often build slowly and can include shortness of breath, chest or abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, cough, nausea, swelling, and fluid buildup, depending on where the cancer starts.

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Types

  • Pleural mesothelioma: starts in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, and is the most common type.
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  • Peritoneal mesothelioma: starts in the lining of the abdomen, and often causes abdominal swelling, pain, and digestive symptoms.
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  • Pericardial mesothelioma: starts around the heart and is very rare.
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  • Testicular mesothelioma: the rarest form, affecting the sac around the testicle.
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Common Symptoms

  • Shortness of breath or cough.
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  • Chest pain or abdominal pain.
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  • Fatigue, fever, or night sweats.
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  • Weight loss and loss of appetite.
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  • Swelling or fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen.
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Treatment

Treatment usually depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the person. Common options include surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, and some patients may also join clinical trials.

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When to Get Help

If someone has ongoing chest pain, trouble breathing, unexplained abdominal swelling, or persistent weight loss, they should see a doctor promptly. These symptoms can have many causes, but mesothelioma is serious and needs medical evaluation.

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Mesothelioma is not something to self-diagnose. If asbestos exposure is part of the history, that is especially important to mention to a clinician.[4][9]

Bottom line: Mesothelioma is a rare asbestos-related cancer that usually affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen, and it often causes vague symptoms that can be mistaken for other conditions.

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