What Is Mesothelioma and How Is It Managed?

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kovvuru Bhaskar Reddy , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue covering most internal organs. It most commonly affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) but can also occur in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), heart (pericardium), or testicles (tunica vaginalis). The primary cause is exposure to asbestos fibers, although other factors may also contribute. Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary treatment approach can help improve symptom control, quality of life, and survival.

What Are the Types of Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is classified according to the part of the body where it develops.

Pleural Mesothelioma: The most common type, affecting the lining surrounding the lungs.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Develops in the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Pericardial Mesothelioma: A rare form affecting the lining around the heart.
Testicular Mesothelioma: A very rare type involving the lining surrounding the testicles.

What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lumps beneath the skin on the chest
Peritoneal Mesothelioma:
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in bowel habits
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Pericardial Mesothelioma:
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
Testicular Mesothelioma:
- Swelling or a painless lump in the testicle

What Causes Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma most commonly develops after prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers. When these microscopic fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can become trapped in the mesothelium, leading to chronic inflammation, genetic damage, and eventually cancer.

Occupational or environmental asbestos exposure
Previous radiation therapy to the chest or abdomen
Exposure to zeolite minerals such as erionite
Inherited genetic susceptibility
Possible association with Simian Virus 40 (SV40), although evidence remains inconclusive

When Should You See a Doctor for Mesothelioma?

Anyone with persistent respiratory or abdominal symptoms, particularly those with a history of asbestos exposure, should seek prompt medical evaluation. Early assessment by a pulmonologist, oncologist, thoracic surgeon, gastroenterologist, radiation oncologist, or general physician can help diagnose mesothelioma at an earlier stage and improve treatment options.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

Persistent chest or abdominal pain
Shortness of breath or a chronic cough
Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue
Abdominal swelling or ongoing digestive problems
A lump in the chest wall or testicle
A history of asbestos exposure with new or worsening symptoms

Early diagnosis and timely treatment can improve symptom control, expand treatment options, and enhance quality of life.

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How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis requires imaging studies, tissue sampling, and laboratory tests to confirm the cancer and determine its stage.

Chest X-ray
CT scan
MRI
PET scan for staging
Needle biopsy
Thoracoscopy or laparoscopy with tissue biopsy
Mediastinoscopy when lymph node evaluation is required
Blood tests for mesothelioma-related biomarkers
Histopathological examination with immunohistochemistry

How Is Mesothelioma Treated?

Treatment depends on the type, stage, and overall health of the patient. A multidisciplinary approach often provides the best outcomes.

Surgery, including pleurectomy/decortication or extrapleural pneumonectomy for selected patients
Cytoreductive surgery with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for selected peritoneal mesothelioma cases
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors
Targeted therapy in selected patients
Palliative care for symptom relief and quality-of-life improvement
Participation in clinical trials for access to emerging treatments

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What Are the Risk Factors for Mesothelioma?

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing mesothelioma.

Occupational asbestos exposure
Living with someone exposed to asbestos
Environmental asbestos exposure
Previous radiation therapy
Exposure to erionite or similar mineral fibers
Genetic susceptibility
Increasing age
Male sex due to historically higher occupational exposure

What Complications Can Mesothelioma Cause?

Mesothelioma can progressively affect surrounding organs and significantly impair daily functioning.

Respiratory failure
Pleural or peritoneal fluid accumulation
Severe chronic pain
Spread of cancer to nearby or distant organs
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Malnutrition and significant weight loss

Can Mesothelioma Be Prevented?

The most effective way to reduce the risk of mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. Following workplace safety regulations, using appropriate protective equipment, properly handling asbestos-containing materials, and seeking professional asbestos removal services can significantly reduce exposure. Individuals with previous occupational exposure should undergo regular medical evaluations and promptly report any persistent respiratory or abdominal symptoms.

What Is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma?

The prognosis depends on the type of mesothelioma, stage at diagnosis, overall health, and response to treatment. Early-stage disease offers the greatest opportunity for surgery and longer survival, while advanced disease is generally managed with treatments aimed at controlling symptoms and slowing progression. Regular follow-up, supportive care, rehabilitation, and multidisciplinary management are essential for maintaining quality of life and monitoring for recurrence.