Types of Mesothelioma

There are four types of mesothelioma cancers associated with asbestos exposure. The types of mesothelioma names are based on the area(s) they affect.

PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA

Lungs

This cancer develops in the lining of the lungs called the pleura. It accounts for 75% of mesothelioma cases. It is hard to detect as it has mild symptoms. The symptoms are:

• Persistent chest pains
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Persistent dry cough

These symptoms are related to the buildup of fluid in the lungs and chest. The survival rate of this type of mesothelioma is 10% of cases.

PERITONEAL MESOTHELIOMA

Abdomen

This cancer develops in the lining of the abdomen and quickly spreads to organs such as the bowel and liver. It accounts for 20% of mesothelioma cases. The symptoms are:

• Abdominal pain and swelling
• Vomiting/nausea
• Constipation/diarrhea
• Weight loss

These symptoms are related to the buildup of fluid in the abdomen. From the start of symptoms a patient’s life span is between ten to twelve months. Mortality is dependent on the individual patient.

PERICARDIAL MESOTHELIOMA

Heart

This cancer develops on the lining of the heart. As the disease progresses the heart is unable to pump effectively to circulate enough oxygen to the body. The symptoms associated with this type of cancer are easily mistaken for a heart attack. Symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat

TESTICULAR MESOTHELIOMA

This cancer develops in the lining that covers the testicles with symptoms of scrotum swelling and lumps. It is a rare disease and accounts for about 1% of documented cases. Currently there is no theory explaining how this type of mesothelioma is associated with asbestos exposure. However, it is said that asbestos fibers once in the body can lodge themselves in organs and can cause infections or inflammation. This results in the development of mesothelioma.