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Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a very rare but aggressive type of cancer originating from the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that covers the internal organs of our body. It is most commonly seen in the lining of the lungs.

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ℹWhat is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer with a rare occurrence. It arises in the mesothelial cells of the lining surrounding the lungs (pleura), the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), or the heart (pericardium).

The most characteristic feature is its latency period: it typically develops 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. The primary cause is exposure to asbestos (amyant) fibers. Rarely, Erionite exposure or BAP1 gene mutations are also implicated.

Common Symptoms

Chest Cavity Pain (Pleural)
Persistent chest pain.
Shortness of Breath (Pleural)
Due to fluid accumulation between the lung linings (pleural effusion).
Dry Persistent Cough (Pleural)
May be accompanied by back pain and fatigue.
Abdominal Pain and Swelling (Peritoneal)
Due to fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites).
Nausea and Vomiting (Peritoneal)
Associated with increased intra-abdominal pressure.
Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis Methods

Laboratory Tests
General blood analyses.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Assessment of respiratory capacity.
Chest X-ray and CT
Radiological imaging methods to detect thickening of the membranes or fluid.
PET-CT
Evaluates the extent and activity of the disease throughout the body.
Cytology
Pathological examination of cancer cells obtained via aspiration of pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial fluid.
Biopsy
Definitive diagnosis through histopathological examination of tissue samples from the membrane structures.

Causes

Asbestos Exposure
The most fundamental and nearly the only distinct cause. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they cannot be expelled from the body; they become chronically embedded in mesothelial cells, leading to DNA damage.
Erionite
A rare asbestos-like mineral.
Genetic Predisposition
BAP1 gene mutations are implicated in some cases.

Treatments

Surgery
Removal of the tumor in early stages.
Chemotherapy
One of the most commonly used treatment methods.
Radiotherapy
Applied to achieve local control.
Immunotherapy
Has provided promising results in recent years, particularly in advanced stages.

Second opinion for Mesothelioma

A second specialist's review of your Mesothelioma diagnosis or treatment plan can clarify your next step. On eKonsey this review is done online.

When is a second opinion useful?

  • When the diagnosis is unclear or more than one possibility was discussed
  • When surgery or a long-term treatment was recommended
  • When the response to treatment is not what you expected

About second opinions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: August 30, 2026

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