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Malignant Mesothelioma: Symptoms, Signs, and Causes

Home> Malignant Mesothelioma> Symptoms and Causes

The symptoms of mesothelioma cancer may vary from one patient to another. It will also vary depending on the type of organ lining that it arises from. In some cases, malignant mesothelioma symptoms may be similar to those of other symptoms. However, it is important not to ignore them and to diligently see a specialist if they are persistent.

Malignant Mesothelioma Symptoms and Signs

Mesothelioma may exhibit different symptoms based on the organ lining it affects. The following are the different signs of mesothelioma:

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Symptoms

Pleural mesothelioma may not show any symptoms initially. However, as the tumors grow, patients may start experiencing symptoms. The following are the different symptoms of pleural mesothelioma symptoms:

Chest Pain

Persistent chest pain is one of the most common malignant mesothelioma symptoms in the chest. This discomfort may result from the tumor affecting the pleura, the thin membrane surrounding the lungs.

Painful Coughing

Painful coughing is observed to be one of the signs of mesothelioma in the chest. As the tumor progresses, irritation of the lung lining contributes to persistent and often painful coughing episodes.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitivity or irritation of the skin on the chest can occur as one of the malignant mesothelioma symptoms. This can manifest as heightened sensitivity or discomfort on the chest surface.

Shortness of Breath

One of the hallmark pleural mesothelioma symptoms is shortness of breath. As the tumor expands and affects lung function, individuals may experience difficulty breathing and reduced lung capacity.

Unusual Lumps of Tissue Under the Skin on Your Chest

The development of unusual lumps or masses beneath the skin on the chest may signify the presence of pleural mesothelioma. These abnormal tissue formations are a notable symptom that requires prompt medical attention.

Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating, especially during the night, can be one of the malignant mesothelioma symptoms.

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Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most common malignant peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms. The tumor's impact on the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdominal cavity, can lead to persistent discomfort.

Abdominal Swelling

Abdominal swelling or distension is one of the common signs of mesothelioma in the peritoneal region. This is often due to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, a condition known as ascites.

Nausea

Nausea is a potential symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma, linked to the tumor's impact on the digestive system.

Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be an early sign of peritoneal mesothelioma. As the tumor affects the digestive processes, individuals may experience weight loss despite maintaining their regular dietary habits.

Malignant Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms

Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can be a symptom of malignant pericardial mesothelioma, indicating the impact of the tumor on the pericardium, the thin membrane surrounding the heart. As the tumor progresses, it can disrupt normal cardiac function, leading to changes in blood pressure.

Abnormal Heart Rhythm Patterns

Abnormal heart rhythm patterns are one of the symptoms of mesothelioma cancer in the pericardium. This disruption in the heart's electrical signals can manifest as irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias, requiring a thorough cardiac evaluation.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a notable symptom of mesothelioma cancer in the chest, often associated with the tumor's effect on the pericardium.

Trouble Breathing

Malignant pericardial mesothelioma can lead to difficulty breathing, commonly attributed to the restrictive impact of the tumor on the heart and lungs.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma of Tunica Vaginalis Testis

Hydrocele

A hydrocele, an accumulation of fluid in the scrotum, can be a symptom of mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis.

Lump in the Scrotum

The development of a palpable lump in the scrotum could be one of the symptoms of mesothelioma cancer in the tunica vaginalis testis.

Inguinal Hernia

Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis may present with an inguinal hernia, characterized by bulging in the groin area. This hernia may be associated with the presence and growth of the tumor.

Spermatocele

The presence of a spermatocele, a cyst-like structure in the testicles, may be one of the symptoms of mesothelioma cancer in the tunica vaginalis testis.

What Causes Malignant Mesothelioma?

It is common to wonder, “What causes mesothelioma?”. Different mesothelioma types have different risk factors. Asbestos exposure has been identified as the most common cause of mesothelioma. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to cellular damage, inflammation, and the development of cancerous growth in the lining of organs.

Also, in some cases, mesothelioma is caused by radiation exposure. Other potential malignant mesothelioma causes, such as genetic predispositions, are currently under scientific investigation.

When to See an Oncologist?

If you experience persistent symptoms such as unexplained pain, difficulty breathing, or unexplained weight loss, especially if you have a history of asbestos exposure, it's crucial to consult with an oncologist promptly. Early detection and intervention can significantly impact the prognosis and effectiveness of treatment.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, recognizing the signs of malignant mesothelioma and seeking timely medical attention is paramount for effective management. Learning about different malignant mesothelioma symptoms and malignant mesothelioma causes can help patients navigate the complexities of this rare cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is malignant mesothelioma caused by smoking??

No, malignant mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure. Smoking is not identified as one of the malignant mesothelioma causes; however, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer.

Individuals with a history of asbestos exposure, particularly in occupational settings like construction and shipbuilding, are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. This includes workers and even family members exposed to asbestos fibers brought home inadvertently.

No, mesothelioma is a cancerous disease. It arises from the abnormal growth of cells in the mesothelium, the thin membrane lining various organs. There is no non-cancerous or benign variant of mesothelioma.

Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of mesothelioma. Inhaled asbestos fibers can lead to cellular damage and the development of cancerous growth in the lining of organs. Other risk factors include a history of radiation exposure, increasing age, and certain genetic factors.

Occupational asbestos exposure is one of the major malignant mesothelioma causes. Jobs in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and asbestos mining carry a higher risk. Additionally, secondary exposure through contact with asbestos-contaminated clothing or materials can contribute to the development of mesothelioma.

The potential pleural mesothelioma causes include asbestos exposure, radiation exposure, increasing age, and certain genetic factors.