Mesothelioma Cancer Information

Mesothelioma cancer is a rare malignant tumor of the pleura and/or peritoneum, associated with exposure to asbestos.

The pleura is a thin membrane that covers the outer surface of the lungs and the chest cavity where they sit. Mesothelioma that originates from the pleura in the chest cavity is referred to as pleural mesothelioma. This is the most common location for mesothelioma.

The peritoneum is a thin membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma can originate from the peritoneum as well and is called peritoneal mesothelioma.

Exposure to asbestos is by far the strongest risk factor associated with mesothelioma. Inhalation of some types of asbestos fibers, natural occurring silicate minerals that form thin, fibrous crystals, greatly increase the risk for this cancer as well as other lung diseases. Occupational exposure to the crystal fibers, commonly used in various forms of insulation up until the 1970's and 80's, is often the most significant exposure risk. Rarely, mesothelioma has been reported in patients with no known exposure to asbestos.

Additional Info

What is Mesothelioma? This one-time rare cancer has seen more public discussion in recent years. If you don't understand what mesothelioma is, read this page for an introduction.

What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a chemical which was used in industry and construction in the past which was later found to be an important cause of disease, particularly mesothelioma cancer. Learn more about it here.

Asbestos and Mesothelioma: Exposure to asbestos is by far the strongest risk factor for the development of mesothelioma. Read more about what asbestos is and the link between asbestos and this form of cancer.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma: How does mesothelioma present? Here we discuss the typical symptoms of mesothelioma that present in patients and may lead to a diagnosis.

What is typical Treatment for mesothelioma?

Benign Mesothelioma: While the large majority of these tumors are malignant, rarely, benign tumors of the mesothelium tissues are found. Read more about them here.