Sunday, September 7, 2008

Definition

Malignant mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor of the pleura (lining of the lung and chest cavity) or peritoneum (lining of the abdomen) that is almost always caused by sustained exposure to asbestos.

Alternative Names

Malignant mesothelioma

Causes

Malignant mesothelioma affects men more often than women. Sustained exposure to asbestos is the biggest risk factor. Symptoms may not appear until 20 to 50 years or even longer after exposure to asbestos.

The average age of diagnosis is 60. The tumor can spread rapidly to involve other nearby areas.

Symptoms (More)

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General Information

Asbestos Exposure and Your Health (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry) Malignant Mesothelioma (National Cancer Institute) Mesothelioma (Benign-fibrous) (More)

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The Body

Anatomy of Respiratory System Lung (Image) Respiratory System (Image) (More)

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Complications

Metastases Pneumothorax

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Symptoms and Tests

Chest Pain Chest X-ray Cough (More)

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Treatment

Radiation Therapy Brachytherapy (A Type of Internal Radiation Therapy) (National Cancer Institute) Chemotherapy and Your Mouth (More)

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Staying Healthy

U.S. Surgeon General's Family History Initiative Mesothelioma: Prevention/Screening

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Additional information on Mesothelioma

Research/Other News Facts and Figures Insurance/Financing

Organizations, Directories For Ohioans PubMed Search Spanish Language websites

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