August 31, 2011

What Is Mesothelioma?

Here are some fast facts to consider about Mesothelioma:
  • Mesothelioma is a malignant, cancerous terminal disease
  • Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer where malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the body
  • Mesothelioma is contracted by inhaled asbestos particles, dust and fibers
  • Asbestos fibers absolutely take a foothold in the protective membrane, layers and linings known as the 'mesothelium'; a protective barrier that protects, covers and defends most of the body's internal organs including the stomach, heart and of course the lungs.
  • There are 3 types of Mesothelioma that are identified: Pleural mesothelioma, Peritoneal mesothelioma, Pericardial mesothelioma
  • Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the lungs
  • Peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the stomach or abdominal cavity
  • Pericardial mesothelioma occurs when asbestos fibers get into the lining near the heart
  • Mesothelioma has four stages
  • Diagnosis of Mesothelioma is difficult due to its long period of incubation within a human body.
  • The most common early symptoms are shortness of breath and chest pains weight loss, a persistent cough or difficulty swallowing food
  • Surgery is the primary type of treatment usually recommended for mesothelioma patients
  • New mesothelioma treatments are the subject of countless clinical trials currently underway across the United States that includes
  • They include photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, drug therapy, gene therapy, and multimodality therapy

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