Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer found in the lining of the lungs, chest or abdomen.

Causes of mesothelioma

The major risk factor for developing mesothelioma is previous exposure to asbestos, tiny fibers that have been used in insulation and heating homes. Their use is limited these days, and there are now strict safety guidelines for working with or around asbestos. However, the negative effects of asbestos were not known in previous decades when their use was much more prevalent, so older people exposed to asbestos in their younger years may be at risk. It can take decades for asbestos-related cancers to develop, so even if you were exposed to asbestos more than 20 years ago, you can still be at risk.

Studies have also shown that smoking can increase the risk of developing asbestos-related cancers.

Symptoms of mesothelioma

Fluid collection in the lungs or abdomen
Trouble breathing
Chest pain
Abdominal pain or swelling
Lump in the abdomen

Diagnosis of mesothelioma

CT/PET scans to identify any abnormal functioning of organs or tissues
Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) to get images of the lungs and the surrounding areas to detect any tumors. The EBUS technique can also be used to obtain a biopsy of the lung tissue.
Pulmonary function tests (PFT) to monitor breathing and evaluate lung function
Sputum cytology to examine mucus under a microscope
Bronchoscopy to examine the lungs’ airways
Transthoracic needle biopsy to remove a piece of lung tissue in order to examine under a microscope
CBC test

Treatment of mesothelioma at KHCC

Depending on the size of the tumor and the stage of diagnosis, treatment options vary and can include surgery, radiotherapy, and/or chemotherapy.