Did You Know?
The National Institute of Health in 1978 estimated that eight to eleven million U.S. workers had been exposed to asbestos by that date. In fact, by 1970, it is estimated that some 25 million tons of asbestos were used in the U.S.
The second most common form of Mesothelioma Cancer is Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdominal Mesothelioma).
- Peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancer of the cells lining the abdominal cavity.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer is found in 10% to 20% of the mesothelioma patients and is a rapidly fatal malignancy with a median survival of less than 1 year.
- The only known cause of Peritoneal Mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by asbestos and it affects the lining that protects the contents of the abdomen and which also provides a lubricating fluid to enable the organs to move and work properly.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma involves the abdominal cavity, infiltrating the liver, spleen or the bowel.
- As with pleural mesothelioma, pain is the most common presenting complaint.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma – Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Peritoneal Mesothelioma is based on a pathological exam, more commonly referred to as a biopsy. This exam will test a tissue sample for the presence of malignant and/or pleural mesothelioma.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history. A history of exposure to asbestos is a common theme in diagnosing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma diagnosis is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma diagnosis includes a physical examination followed by chest X-rays and a CT scan, and confirmed with a biopsy (tissue sample) and microscopic examination.
To diagnose Peritoneal mesothelioma a thoracoscopy (inserting a tube with a camera into the chest) is used to do a biopsy. Individuals with pleural mesothelioma may accumulate some fluid between the lung lining and chest cavity. This can be detected through a chest x-ray, as well as CT scans.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma - Symptoms
Peritoneal Mesothelioma symptoms include: abdominal pains and weakness; weight loss; nausea; loss off appetite; abdominal swelling; bowel obstruction. Depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems can be experienced such as breathing problems and severe pains.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma – Mesothelioma Treatment
Treatment for mesothelioma using conventional therapies has not proved successful and patients have a median survival time of 6 - 18 months depending on which stage (1-4) the mesothelioma cancer has progressed.
Treatment for Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Research into new and more effective treatments for mesothelioma is ongoing. There is no cure as yet for mesothelioma. The standard treatments that attempt to hold back the progression of this cancer are:
- Surgery — to remove part of all of the affected body tissues
- Radiation therapy — to target and kill the mesothelioma cells
- Chemotherapy — the use of drugs, injected or taken orally, to kill or stop the growth of the cancer cells
Peritoneal Mesothelioma treatment depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.
Peritoneal mesothelioma treatment can also vary, and is dependant upon a number of factors. The doctor, once a diagnosis has been made, will make a recommendation based upon details such as: the extent of the cancer and how advanced it is; the patient’s general condition and health; past medical history of the patient; and the patient’s age.
