Learn about Malignant Mesothelioma

Welcome to Malignant Mesothelioma Guide, a free online mesothelioma resource for those seeking online information about malignant mesothelioma. Review info on the most common meso topics. Find information about different types of mesothelioma and learn about the most common mesothelioma symptoms and treatments. Learn about the history of mesothelioma, mesothelioma lawsuits and current medical studies being conducted for treatment alternatives.

The Malignant Mesothelioma Guide also has a mesothelioma treatment center and doctor directory to help you find a mesothelioma specialists in your area who can provide mesothelioma treatments to help you address your particular condition.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma cases in the range of 2,000-3,000 new cases a year are diagnosed. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women. Being exposed to asbestos can affect the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma. The tissue that lines your lungs, stomach, heart and other organs is called mesothelium. Mesothelioma is cancer of that tissue. It is a rare but serious type of cancer. It usually starts in the lungs, but can also start in the abdomen or other organs. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles. It can take a long time - 30 to 50 years - between being around asbestos and getting the disease. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or all three.

Asbestos

Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases.

Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined. Clinical trials are also available.

Signs of Malignant Mesothelioma

Possible signs of malignant mesothelioma include shortness of breath and pain under the rib cage. Sometimes the cancer causes fluid to collect around the lung or in the abdomen. These symptoms may be caused by the fluid or malignant mesothelioma. Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:

• Trouble breathing
• Pain under the rib cage
• Pain or swelling in the abdomen
• Lumps in the abdomen
• Weight loss for no known reason