Early Mesothelioma Symptoms

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is almost exclusively associated with inhalation of asbestos fibers.Asbestos itself is a natural mineral that is very resistant to heat and corrosion and was widely used in the past and even up to the present in some countries especially many developing countries,in the construction and fireproofing industries among many other uses.Because of the long periods(latency period) between exposure and development of disease,it is usually difficult to diagnose the condition early enough.This leads to late diagnosis of mesothelioma in most patients with a very grave prognosis or outcome.

The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma.The pleura is the outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall.The two most important early symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are chest pain and difficulty in breathing.They are a direct result of pleural effusion(build up of fluid in the chest) which can be seen in up to 90% of patients.Other early warning signs include dry cough or wheezing,fatigue,tightness in the chest and weight loss.

Another type of mesothelioma is peritoneal mesothelioma.The peritoneum is the inner lining of the abdominal wall.The most common early symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are abdominal pain,followed by abdominal enlargement and tenderness.There is also loss of appetite resulting in weight loss.

There is also pericardial mesothelioma.The pericardium is the outer covering of the heart.The most common symptoms here are chest pain and difficulty in breathing.They are as a result of the thickening of the pericardium.

For testicular mesothelioma,which is very rare,the most important and consistent symptom is a lump in the testis.

Because of the long latency period from exposure to asbestos to development of mesothelioma(mean latency for men is 48 years while for women it is 53 years),it is important that people at most risk of developing the disease should present themselves for regular screening.Usually onset of symptoms is  gradual and more often than not are attributed to less serious conditions.Many patints also have other respiratory diseases and the onset of mesothelioma is often misinterpreted as a worsening of the existing condition.Early diagnosis leads to a better prognosis and should be taken seriously by people with a history of exposure to asbestos whether or not they have any symptoms of mesothelioma.