Tumours forming in the mesothelium are an uncommon symptom of mesothelioma. This tissue creates a space for the abdomen and the reproductive organs while also covering the heart, lungs, and other organs. The most prevalent kind is malignant pleural mesothelioma, which affects the linings of lungs and chest. This article will tell you all you need to know about mesothelioma and how to prevent it.
Mesothelioma Meaning
Defining mesothelioma meaning in brief: Mesothelioma is the tumour that happens in mesothelium which is a lining or tissue that covers the abdomen, lungs, heart, or other organs. In most cases, it affects the lining of the lungs, with pleural mesothelioma being the the most common. The leading mesothelioma causes are environmental exposure, especially asbestos. It has different stages, the 4th being the last and the most advanced stage.
In the first stage, patients may not experience any symptoms, and if they do, they are often mild. If diagnosed in this stage, the treatment happens well (effective) as it has still not spread a lot. The 4th stage is the terminal stage, where the cancer spreads to other parts of the body.
Some common symptoms may include chest pain, fatigue, difficulty in breathing, continuous pain, fever, loss of appetite, sweating, abdominal swelling, unexplained weight loss, coughing, and bowel or urinary tract problems.
Different Stages of Mesothelioma
The stages help categorise the location and how far the disease has spread in the body. It is also a part of the diagnosis process, which helps create appropriate treatment plans. Listed below are the four stages of this cancer:
Stage 1 – Mesothelioma cancer is only limited to one area and is relatively small.
Stage 2 – Tumours have started to spread to other organs in the same area.
Stage 3 – The cancer has spread to lymph nodes, tissues and organs.
Stage 4 – It has spread throughout the body, reaching the distant ends affecting multiple organs.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Mesothelioma?
Your doctor will ask you questions after understanding your symptoms. If the doctor feels you have mesothelioma symptoms, they will first try and ask you about asbestos exposure. They can also check your family history, especially if anyone has ever been diagnosed with mesothelioma. If there is a history of mesothelioma case in your family, it will help doctors make an accurate diagnosis. They may also conduct a physical check-up to rule out any unusual signs or lumps. These are performed using a CT scan of the abdomen or chest and a chest x-ray. Based on these findings, you may be asked to undergo more tests to rule out mesothelioma.
What Happens After Diagnosis of Mesothelioma?
After a patient is diagnosed with mesothelioma, the next question is what will happen next. Just like other cancers, the outcome of mesothelioma cancer also depends on when it was diagnosed and how it is treated. It is difficult for any oncologist to answer what can happen next.
In reality, this disease has a very bleak or poor outcome. However, there are many patients with long-term survival rates, depending on different factors. Patients must, therefore, consult a good oncologist for their treatment and explore every possible option.
Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma cancer spreads rapidly and often is non-curable, hence being terminal for most patients. Patients may live with this cancer for a couple of years, and some may see decreased signs of the illness. Irrespective, the treatment option for this disease depends on its location and the extent to which it has spread. Doctors will check whether it has spread to lymph nodes and other vital organs. Secondly, they will also check your personal and health preferences while discussing treatment options.
Some of the mesothelioma treatment options include:
- Surgery
- Palliative procedures
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy, such as neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Supportive options to control symptoms of cancer
When Should You See a Doctor?
Always visit your doctor if you feel something is not right and you have developed unexplained symptoms. The symptoms of this condition are very generic and may not always be linked to mesothelioma. However, it is always better to rule out anything that worries you. Get yourself checked thoroughly and rule out the possibility at the earliest stage. Most importantly, if you have been exposed to asbestos, do tell your doctor.
Final Thought
Mesothelioma is not a curable disease, but it can be treated depending on the stage you are in and the kind of cancer cells present in the body. Mesothelioma treatment options, such as chemotherapy, surgery, and immunotherapy, may help extend your lifespan. These treatments may offer relief from the symptoms and help people live a more relaxed life. It is always better to consult the oncologist and discuss your treatment options in detail. Always check the pros and cons of each option and follow the advice of your doctor.
