Understanding the Types of Malignant Mesothelioma Cancer

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common type of mesothelioma, making up only 5% of mesothelioma cases. This form of mesothelioma affects the pericardium, which is a membranous lining surrounding the heart.

Researchers know that pleural mesothelioma is caused by asbestos inhalation. However, the way asbestos causes pericardial mesothelioma is not well-known. Many believe the fibers travel from the lungs to the heart through the bloodstream.

If asbestos fibers remain in the membranes around the heart, they cannot be eliminated. These fibers start to cause changes in the pericardial membrane, leading to uncontrollable cell growth and malignant mesothelioma tumors. Once malignant cells begin to develop, the membranes thicken and fill with fluid, applying pressure to the heart.

Because pericardial mesothelioma is rare, researchers have yet to determine a likely set of symptoms. The following symptoms indicate a cardiac problem, but additional testing must be done to diagnose pericardial mesothelioma.

• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Heart palpitations
• Chest pain

To diagnose pericardial mesothelioma, a doctor may perform a CT scan, MRI or chest x-ray. To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy, will then be performed. A biopsy involves the removal of fluid or tissue from the pericardial area to test for mesothelioma cells. Pericardial mesothelioma patients may have all three types of mesothelioma cancer cells--epitheliod, sarcomatoid and biphasic.

In most cases, treatment for pericardial mesothelioma is only palliative. A patient may have fluid from the pericardium removed or have tumors reduced in size. Chemotherapy is currently not a treatment for this form of mesothelioma.

The best chance of survival lies in early detection so everyone who has been exposed to asbestos dust is encouraged to seek regular medial check-ups and legal advice.

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