Mesothelioma or asbestos cancer is a rare type of lung cancer that affects pleura (lining of lungs) and peritoneum (abdominal cavity). The major cause of this type of cancer is exposure to asbestos powder and usually shows symptoms very slowly. In most of the cases, the condition may be diagnosed after 30 or more years of first exposure to asbestos powder. As males are more exposed to asbestos powder, mesothelioma occurs more in men than women. The risk factors include age also, the chance of getting affected will be more as the age progresses.
Asbestosis differs from mesothelioma by non-cancerous condition. It is also a type of chronic lung disease due to exposure of asbestos powder. If the exposure to such conditions is high, asbestosis can lead to mesothelioma. Risk factors that lead to the disease depends mainly on age, the duration of exposure to carcinogen (asbestos powder), frequency, type of fibre and concentration. Even though the risk factors of lung cancer include smoking, it is not considered so in case of mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
The primary symptom of asbestos cancer is difficulty in breathing. The patient will feel shortness in inhalation. This will progress to cough and will be productive and persistent. Feeling of pain and rigidity to chest muscles is another symptom of mesothelioma. The patient may also feel chest tightness. Loss of appetite and decrease in body weight is another symptom of the disease. During the time of inhalation, there will be a crackling sound which is uncommon among any chest infection.
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
As part of diagnostic procedure, the doctor may ask about the frequency and period of exposure to asbestos powder by the patient. Examining chest X-ray is one of the common methods in diagnosing lungs and chest related problems. A detailed physical examination is needed to analyse the problem. This will help to rule out other types of lung disorders. Tests to measure pulmonary function will be done. Bronchoscopy to check the dilation and functions of pleural and peritoneal lining are some of the diagnostic techniques. In most of the cases, CT scan will also be taken.
Treatment Methods
The treatment procedures depend on
- location of cancerous cells
- age of patient
- stage of diseases
- general health condition
General treatment methods include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. In some cases, combinations of treatments are also practiced. Giving high dose chemotherapy after surgical removal of affected parts is one of the common types of treatment.
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