Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is often
There are four main types of mesothelioma, including pleural (lungs), peritoneal (abdomen), pericardial (heart) and testicular.
Most mesothelioma cases occur in the pleura (lungs). This is because asbestos typically enters the body by being inhaled.
Cancer Research data covering 2010 to 2019
- 89% of mesothelioma cases occur in the lining of the lungs (the pleura)
- 3% of the mesothelioma cases occur in the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen)
- Less than 1% of mesothelioma cases occur in the peritoneum (lining of the heart)
- 8% of mesothelioma cases are either unspecified or classed as ‘other’
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
Pleural Mesothelioma
The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, a cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura.
The pleura is made up of two layers of tissue: the outer (parietal) layer which lines the chest wall and the inner (visceral) layer which covers the lungs. The pleura produces a lubricating fluid that helps the lungs to move smoothly as we breathe in and out.
When mesothelioma develops in the pleura, the layers of the pleura thicken and press on the lung. Fluid also collects between the layers (known as a pleural effusion).
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma
- Chest pain
- Breathlessness
- Fever
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Back and shoulder pain
- Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
This form of mesothelioma grows in the tissue that lines the inside of the abdomen – known as the peritoneum.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is far less common than pleural mesothelioma, accounting for around 3-5% of mesothelioma cases.
The peritoneum helps to protect the organs within the abdomen and keeps them in place. It also has two layers, the inner (visceral) layer which is next to the abdominal organs, and the outer (parietal) layer which lines the abdominal wall.
When mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum, it causes it to thicken and leads to a collection of fluid in the abdomen (called ascites). This collection of fluid causes the abdomen to swell.
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Bloating
- Bowel changes
- Extreme exhaustion (fatigue)
Pericardial Mesothelioma
Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma
- Irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent cough
Testicular Mesothelioma
Unlike other forms of mesothelioma, many people who develop testicular mesothelioma have no history of asbestos exposure.
Symptoms of testicular mesothelioma
- Scrotal swelling
- Painless lumps
