Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs. This lining is called the pleura, or pleural membrane, and it is made up of mesothelial cells. This pleural membrane consists of two layers - the parietal layer, and the visceral layer. The parietal layer is an outer layer that lines the entire chest cavity and diaphragm, while the visceral layer is an inner layer that covers the lungs. Together, these two layers provide support and protection for the lungs and the chest cavity.

Asbestos Cause Pleural Mesothelioma

The method by which asbestos causes pleural mesothelioma is much better understood than for other types of mesothelioma. In cases of pleural mesothelioma, asbestos exposure occurs via inhalation of asbestos fibers. Once these fibers have entered the lungs, they work their way to the pleural membrane, and the body experiences great difficulty in expelling these fibers. Over a long period of time - typically two decades or more - asbestos fibers cause changes in these pleural cells, which may cause scarring of the lungs and, eventually, the formation of tumors. When pleural cells become cancerous, they are no longer regulated by the mechanisms that control division of normal healthy cells. They begin to divide continuously, and this causes thickening of pleural membranes. As a result, lung capacity is reduced, and fluid begins to build up between pleural layers.

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

• Persistent dry or raspy cough
• Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)
• Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
• Shortness of breath that occurs even when at rest (dyspnea)
• Persistent pain in the chest or rib area, or painful breathing
• Development of lumps under the skin on the chest
• Night sweats or fever
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

Diagnosis

X-rays or CT-Scans are often used to diagnose pleural mesothelioma.
Pleural mesothelioma diagnosis is made partly on the basis of symptoms, but because symptoms are non-specific, additional diagnostic tests are needed to confirm the presence of cancer. Following a medical history review and physical examination, patients must typically undergo imaging tests to confirm the location of cancer, and fluid and tissue tests to confirm the type of cancer involved.

Treatment
In general, pleural mesothelioma patients have three options: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Typically, patients will receive a combination of two or more of these types of treatment.

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