What is Mesothelioma?

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is cancer of the membrane tissue that covers the body’s internal organs. It is most commonly seen as cancer of the pleura (lung) and peritoneum (peritoneum). Mesothelioma is a very rare type of cancer and usually occurs in people aged 50-60 years. The most important cause of mesothelioma is inhalation of mineral fibers called asbestos. Asbestos is found naturally in some parts of Turkey and is used by the public as whitewash, powder or insulation material. People exposed to asbestos in this way are at increased risk of mesothelioma. Apart from asbestos, radiation, certain chemicals and genetic predisposition can also cause mesothelioma.

The symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on the area where it develops.

The most common symptoms of mesothelioma are as follows: 

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Weight loss
• Fire
• Fluid accumulation in the chest cavity

The most common symptoms of peritoneal cancer are:

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss
• Fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity

Mesothelioma is diagnosed by physical examination, blood tests, radiologic imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI) and biopsy (taking a sample of membrane tissue). A special imaging method called PET (positron emission tomography) can also be used to stage mesothelioma. Staging mesothelioma is important to determine the extent of the disease and treatment options.

Mesothelioma can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the stage, type, age and general condition of the patient. In the treatment of mesothelioma, the area or organ with the tumor can be removed by surgical intervention. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill tumor cells.

Radiotherapy uses radiation therapy. These methods can be used alone or together. A new treatment method called immunotherapy is also being developed. In this method, the immune system is strengthened against tumor cells. The prognosis of mesothelioma depends on the stage and type of the disease. Patients diagnosed and treated at an early stage have a longer life expectancy. Epithelioid type mesotheliomas have a better prognosis than other types. To prevent mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos should be prevented. The use of asbestos-containing materials should be avoided and asbestos-contaminated areas should be avoided.