What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that forms in the lining of organs.
Treatment options include immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery.
The following symptoms are characteristic:
- Fever;
- Night sweats;
- Fatigue;
- Unexplained weight loss;
- Chest or abdominal pain;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Coughing and difficulty swallowing;
- Diarrhea;
- Fatigue;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Swelling, hardness, or pain in the groin area.
The most common cause of this type of cancer is asbestos, a mineral used in industry (construction, shipbuilding, and the automotive industry). However, other factors also play a role in the development of mesothelioma, meaning that patients with this diagnosis may not have any connection to asbestos at all, and, moreover, those who have direct contact with this dangerous substance may not develop cancer.
Other risk factors include:
- Radiation;
- Erionite (a mineral similar to asbestos, once used in road construction);
- Genetic factors;
- Gender (the diagnosis is more common in men).
Source:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22432-mesothelioma#what-is-mesothelioma
