Mesothelioma types of cancer include Pleural Mesothelioma, Peritoneal Mesothelioma and Pericardial Mesothelioma. These rare types of cancer are identified by malignant cells found in the lining of the chest, abdominal cavity and heart and are often deadly.
Mesothelioma research clinics have tied the existence of every type of Mesothelioma to asbestos exposure.
A Closer Look At The Three Types Of Mesothelioma
Asbestos was a prevalent building material used from the 1940's through the 1970's. People who had prolonged contact with asbestos later developed these types of cancers and are at the highest risk for developing malignant Mesothelioma today.
Pleural Mesothelioma is the most common type of Mesothelioma diagnosed by Mesothelioma clinics. It is identified by the presence of cancerous cells in the lining surrounding the lung called the pleura. While Pleural Mesothelioma is often diagnosed as lung cancer, it is different in that it affects not the lungs but the lining of the lungs.
This type of Mesothelioma accounts for 75% of all Mesothelioma cases. Its symptoms include: chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, fever, sweating, weight loss and fatigue.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is the second most common type of Mesothelioma diagnosed by research clinics. It is identified by the presence of cancerous cells in the lining of the stomach or abdominal cavity. This type accounts for 10 to 20% of all Mesothelioma cases. Symptoms include: stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and weight loss.
Pericardial Mesothelioma is perhaps the least researched of all types of Mesothelioma cancers since it accounts for only 5 to 15% of all Mesothelioma cases. It is identified by the presence of cancerous cells in the lining surrounding the heart which is called the pericardium.
While a diagnosis of Mesothelioma is rare, research clinics continue to diagnose 2,000 to 3,000 new cases in the US per year. If you have any of the above symptoms and worked in an industry where you were exposed to asbestos, you need to contact a Mesothelioma clinic immediately.