Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare disease in which cancer cells develop in the pleura (the protective sac covering the lungs). The main risk factor for malignant pleural mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Most people with the disease were exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Possible signs of malignant pleural mesothelioma include shortness of breath and pain under the rib cage. It can be difficult to distinguish between malignant pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer, so it may be necessary to examine the inside of the chest to confirm the diagnosis.

Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: An Overview
Mesothelioma is a benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumor affecting the mesothelium, which is a type of protective sac that covers internal organs. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura (lining around the lungs) or peritoneum (the lining around the abdomen).

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a type of mesothelioma in which cancer cells begin to grow in the pleura.

Most people who develop malignant pleural mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.

Risk Factors for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Being exposed to asbestos can affect the risk of developing malignant pleural mesothelioma. Many people with malignant pleural mesothelioma have worked or lived in places where they inhaled or swallowed asbestos. After being exposed to asbestos, it usually takes a long time for malignant pleural mesothelioma to occur.

Other risk factors for malignant pleural mesothelioma include the following:


* Living with a person who works near asbestos
* Being exposed to a certain virus.


Symptoms of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Malignant pleural mesothelioma symptoms usually result from an accumulation of fluid in the pleura. These pleura mesothelioma symptoms often consist of:


* Shortness of breath
* Pain in the chest or under the ribcage.


Keep in mind that other more common, less serious conditions can cause similar symptoms. If you are experiencing any possible malignant pleural mesothelioma symptoms, visit your healthcare provider so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated.

Labels: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma