Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most people who develop Mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.

What is Mesothelioma?

• Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize (spread) from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum.

What are the symptoms of Mesothelioma?

• Symptoms of Mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural Mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal
  Mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal Mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
  
  These symptoms may be caused by Mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
   

  • Resources of National Cancer Institute Information
    
    Cancer Information Service
    Toll-free: 1–800–4–CANCER (1–800–422–6237)
    TTY (for deaf and hard of hearing callers): 1–800–332–8615
    
    NCI Online Internet
    Use http://www.cancer.gov to reach NCI's Web site.