What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive disease that develops in the thin layer of tissue called the mesothelium, which covers many of the body’s internal organs.
Unlike most cancers, mesothelioma doesn’t usually form as a single tumor. This makes it harder for doctors to diagnose.
For example, pleural mesothelioma spreads over the surface of the lungs and chest wall, while peritoneal mesothelioma covers the lining of the abdomen.
Key Facts on Malignant Mesothelioma Cancer
- About 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year.
- The most common symptoms are cough, fluid buildup, and shortness of breath.
- Military veterans make up roughly 30% of all mesothelioma cases.
- Mesothelioma patients and their family members may qualify for financial compensation averaging over $1 million.
Although mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer, advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are offering new hope to patients. Emerging treatments are also helping to improve survival rates and quality of life.
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, you don’t have to walk through it alone. Get a copy of our Free Mesothelioma Guide to learn about treatment options, financial assistance, and support services.
What Is Mesothelioma Cancer Caused By?
Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos is a toxic substance once widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing as it was fireproof, durable, and affordable.
When you breathe in or swallow asbestos fibers, they can become trapped in your body and cause inflammation and damage over time. This can lead to genetic mutations that trigger mesothelioma 10 to 50 years after exposure.
Unfortunately, the dangers of asbestos were hidden by private companies for years, putting millions of workers, veterans, and their families at risk. Even short-term or secondary exposure, like from living with someone who worked with asbestos, can increase your risk of developing this aggressive cancer.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are four types of mesothelioma cancer, and each type impacts a specific part of the body.
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lung Lining)
Pleural mesothelioma starts in the lining of the lungs and chest wall. It’s the most common type, making up more than 75% of all mesothelioma cases, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
The average life expectancy for pleural mesothelioma is 8-22 months, based on a report in Molecular Oncology.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdominal Lining)
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common type, making up 10% to 15% of all cases, according to MD Anderson Cancer Center. This type of mesothelioma develops in the abdominal lining, also known as the peritoneum.
Since this type of cancer doesn’t affect the heart or lungs unless it spreads beyond the abdomen, peritoneal mesothelioma patients have higher survival rates than those with pleural mesothelioma.
Patients live 53 months on average if they get cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy), according to a report in the Journal of Clinical Haematology.
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart Lining)
Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the pericardium, the tissue surrounding the heart. This type of mesothelioma is extremely rare and makes up less than 1% of all cases.
Due to the disease’s location, pericardial mesothelioma patients have a shorter life expectancy, averaging 2-6 months.
Testicular Mesothelioma (Testicle Lining)
Testicular mesothelioma develops in the lining of the testes, also called the tunica vaginalis.
Fewer than 300 cases of testicular mesothelioma have been reported worldwide. Despite it being a rare diagnosis, it is highly treatable.
Testicular mesothelioma has an average life expectancy of 46.7 months, according to an Environmental Health report.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary based on where the cancer forms in the body. However, most patients share some common mesothelioma symptoms.
These include:
- Abdominal pain and/or chest pain
- Fever
- Fluid buildup in the chest (pleural effusion)
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Night sweats
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
In the early stages, the warning signs of mesothelioma are often mild and non-specific. As the cancer progresses, you may start to notice more severe symptoms.
How Is Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a series of tests to look for abnormalities and rule out the possibility of other conditions.
Here’s how doctors typically make a mesothelioma diagnosis:
- Physical Exam: The doctor will check your overall health and ask about your symptoms. Make sure to mention any past asbestos exposure, even if you’re unsure exactly when or where it happened.
- Imaging Tests: Doctors may order chest X-rays, MRIs, and other imaging scans to look for signs of mesothelioma, like fluid buildup around the lungs or abdomen.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is the only way to confirm if you have mesothelioma. To perform a biopsy, doctors surgically remove a small sample of tissue or fluid from the affected area and examine it under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Once mesothelioma cancer is diagnosed, doctors can determine the best treatments based on its location, stage, and cell type.
Avoiding a Misdiagnosis
Mesothelioma often gets mistaken for pneumonia or other types of cancer. In fact, 22.6% or nearly 1 in 4 cases are misdiagnosed, according to a report in Open Epidemiology.
“Because mesothelioma is such a rare cancer, it’s common for the diagnosis to either not be established the first time, or to be the wrong diagnosis because it can look like other diseases.”
To avoid a misdiagnosis, you should see a specialist who has experience diagnosing and treating mesothelioma cancer.
Even if you’ve already been diagnosed, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion, especially if your initial treatments aren’t helping.
Learn how to get the right diagnosis and access the care you need. Our Free Mesothelioma Guide can help you navigate your next steps, from getting a second opinion to finding top specialists.
The Four Stages of Mesothelioma Cancer
Mesothelioma progresses through four stages that doctors use to describe the severity and spread of a patient’s cancer. These stages range from early, localized disease (stages 1 and 2) to advanced cases impacting distant organs (stages 3 and 4).
All forms of mesothelioma have different levels of progression and spread, but pleural mesothelioma is the only type where doctors use an official staging system. Learn more about each of the four stages of malignant pleural mesothelioma below.
The cancer is in the pleura only and hasn't begun spreading.
Treatments like surgery may improve life expectancy by several months or years.
Median Life Expectancy21 months
The cancer has spread just past the pleura and may have reached nearby lymph nodes.
Patients still have many treatment options to increase life expectancy.
Median Life Expectancy19 months
The cancer has reached nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes.
Some patients can get life-extending treatments, while others will opt for palliative care.
Median Life Expectancy16 months
The cancer has reached the other side of the chest and the rest of the body.
Treatments are primarily focused on easing pain, though chemotherapy may be an option.
Median Life Expectancy12 months
Mesothelioma Prognosis
Mesothelioma prognosis is the expected outlook for patients diagnosed with this cancer, including their life expectancy.
Factors that affect your prognosis include:
- Age and overall health
- Cell type
- Mesothelioma type and stage
- Treatment response
Prognosis is an estimate based on the past results of other mesothelioma patients. Everyone’s situation is unique, and your prognosis can improve with treatment.
Some patients have exceeded their initial prognosis by months, years, and even decades. These mesothelioma survivors have gone on to live happy lives despite what they were told about their future.
“We’ve made a lot of progress in our ability to diagnose mesothelioma, understand its behavior, and put together treatments that allow people to live with a good quality of life for an extended period of time.”
Life Expectancy and Survival Rate
Mesothelioma life expectancy and survival rate are essential terms for patients to understand when getting a prognosis.
- Life expectancy is the estimated time a person diagnosed with mesothelioma can expect to live. It’s typically given in months or years. The average life expectancy with mesothelioma is 12-21 months.
- Survival rate measures the number of patients still alive a certain period after their mesothelioma diagnosis. It’s expressed as a percentage over 1, 5, or 10 years. The overall 5-year survival rate for mesothelioma cancer is 12%, according to the ACS.
John’s Survival Story
Nevada retiree John Stahl developed mesothelioma from asbestos exposure in the construction industry. Faced with a stage 4 diagnosis, he refused to let the disease dictate his life.
With the support of his wife, Dee, John underwent chemotherapy while maintaining an incredibly positive outlook.
“I’m doing very well, as a matter of fact. I play golf twice a week. I ride my side-by-side. I go hang out with my friends when they’re around. Yeah, I’m pretty well back to normal.”
– John Stahl, 6+ year pleural mesothelioma survivor
John’s story shows that with specialized medical care and a strong support system, it’s possible to live a normal life with mesothelioma.
Julie’s Survival Story
Julie Gundlach’s life took an unexpected turn at the age of 35 when she was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma. She traced her cancer back to secondary asbestos exposure from her father’s work as an electrician.
Doctors told her she had 6-12 months to live, but Julie persevered through multiple surgeries and chemotherapy treatments to become a nearly 20-year survivor. She now chooses to embrace each day and live in the moment.
“You look back on doing that one-day-at-a time thing, and all of a sudden you realize that you’ve accumulated a lot of days.”
– Julie Gundlach, 19+ year peritoneal mesothelioma survivor
Julie has been a vocal supporter of a nationwide asbestos ban and regularly participates in events like the International Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference and Miles for Meso run/walk fundraiser.
Treatment Options for Malignant Mesothelioma
Every mesothelioma patient can benefit from treatment, whether to live longer or improve their quality of life.
Common mesothelioma treatments include:
- Surgery: Removes tumors and surrounding affected tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or before or after surgery.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Drugs like Opdivo® (nivolumab) and Yervoy® (ipilimumab) are currently approved for mesothelioma.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams damage cancer cells and shrink mesothelioma tumors.
- Tumor Treating Fields: Adhesive patches attach to the chest to generate electrical waves that disrupt the cancer’s ability to spread. It has minimal side effects and is often combined with chemotherapy.
- Palliative Care: Describes any treatment that focuses on pain management and improving quality of life.
- Clinical Trials: Research studies testing new treatments like targeted therapy and cancer vaccines to extend survival.
A doctor will consider several factors when creating your treatment plan, such as your cancer type, stage, and overall health. The right treatment plan will balance potential benefits with what’s most important to you.
“Start thinking about your goals of care and what questions you need answered to make decisions about your treatment plan.”
Top Mesothelioma Doctors
Mesothelioma doctors have the experience and training to treat this rare and challenging cancer.
A mesothelioma specialist can:
- Provide a second opinion that could open the door to more treatment options
- Explain your diagnosis clearly and answer all your questions
- Develop a treatment plan that fits your personal needs and goals
- Coordinate with other doctors to address all aspects of your health
- Help you explore alternative treatments to complement traditional therapies
- Connect you with clinical trials if standard treatments aren’t effective
Use our Free Doctor Match to connect with experienced specialists who can help you navigate your diagnosis and treatment options.
Financial Compensation for Mesothelioma
Maintaining financial stability after a mesothelioma diagnosis can be tough due to the high costs of treatment. Financial stress often adds an extra burden, making it harder for you to focus on healing and spending quality time with loved ones.
Thankfully, there are different compensation options that can help cover your medical bills and other expenses.
You may be able to pursue compensation through:
- Asbestos trust funds: Dozens of asbestos companies have already set aside over $30 billion in compensation for mesothelioma victims as part of bankruptcy proceedings.
- Mesothelioma lawsuits: Lawsuits allow victims and families to pursue compensation from the asbestos companies responsible for their illness. The average settlement from a mesothelioma lawsuit awards between $1 million and $1.4 million.
- VA benefits: Married veterans with mesothelioma cancer may qualify for $4,044.91 a month in tax-free disability compensation if they were exposed to asbestos during their military service.
Mesothelioma victim Dennis talks about his journey from diagnosis to filing an asbestos claim for help pay for treatment. Call us today at (866) 608-8933 to take the first step toward getting compensation for mesothelioma. View Transcript.
Duration: 2 min 48 sec
The specialist called me one night at 5:30 and I thought, “this is odd time for them to be calling me.”
He said, “Dennis, I have the results for your test.”
And my reaction was, “Oh, good. What do you got?”
He didn’t speak for like five or seven seconds and I thought, “Oh my god, this is it.”
And he said, “The results from the biopsy are you have mesothelioma, you’ve been around asbestos.”
They determined I had peritoneal mesothelioma, that means it’s mostly in my stomach.
I asked her, “How long am I going to live, doctor?”
She told me, “I see five to ten years and I will hope for ten to fifteen.”
So I thought, “Oh my god, I just lose my dad three months earlier, now I got cancer.”
I had fun being a mechanic. The dust from brake jobs, yeah there’s a lot, especially in the hub of the wheel; got to get all the dust away so you can put in the new stuff.
I knew there was asbestos in it but I didn’t know it was harmful. I didn’t know it would cause cancer.
Do I call the attorneys? I didn’t know I would get these benefits. It’s helped complete our – make our living financially, we would have been in Hell in high water without these benefits.
I had a legal team on my side in two or three days I believe, and I was very comfortable.
They were real people and they came to my house. They treated me like a person, not a number. They took care of every step and they explained to me the steps that would be taken and as time went on, they needed to they would call me on the phone and let me know and it was a good experience.
If someone was diagnosed with mesothelioma, as I was. I would tell them, first of all, you need help like I did. We were given something we were never warned about, that asbestos was in the things we worked with.
They made it very personal for me in a good way. For my wife, and kids and my family, they really helped me and they treated me like a person.
Mesothelioma Support Resources
Various support resources are available to help patients and their families navigate the challenges of mesothelioma cancer.
Our team can help you access:
- Caregiver assistance
- Emotional support services
- End-of-life counseling
- Financial assistance
- Grief and bereavement support
- Support groups and peer mentors
These resources can provide the comfort and connection you need to face mesothelioma with strength and hope.
Get Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
For over 25 years , thousands of families have worked with Mesothelioma Hope to overcome challenges related to their diagnosis. If you or a loved one has this cancer, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Take these important steps to move forward:
- Get our Free Mesothelioma Guide to arm yourself with information about your diagnosis.
- Work with our nurses to schedule appointments with top doctors.
- File mesothelioma claims worth more than $1 million on average.
- Pursue mesothelioma veterans benefits if you or a loved one served in the military.
Let us be your lifeline during your battle with mesothelioma. Call us at (866) 608-8933 or fill out our contact form — our Patient Advocates are standing by to assist you.
Malignant Mesothelioma FAQs
Is mesothelioma cancer?
Yes, doctors define mesothelioma as a cancer. It’s classified as malignant (cancerous) because it can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis.
Mesothelioma begins in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that lines and protects internal organs like the lungs, abdomen, heart, and testes.
What type of cancer is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the tissue that protects the body’s internal organs. It primarily affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
While there’s no cure, treatments like surgery and chemotherapy can help manage mesothelioma cancer and improve quality of life.
What is the main cause of mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma. When you breathe in or swallow asbestos fibers, they can get stuck in the body and cause mesothelioma cancer to develop after several decades.
Most people are exposed at work, but it can also happen at home, school, and in other settings.
Who mostly gets mesothelioma?
People who’ve been exposed to asbestos, particularly through jobs in construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing, are more likely to develop mesothelioma cancer.
If you or a family member worked in these industries, stay aware of the risks and see a doctor if you notice any symptoms — even if they seem mild or nonspecific.
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, our team can help determine when, where, and how your asbestos exposure happened and see if you qualify for compensation. Get a Free Case Review to learn more.
How common is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, with about 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the U.S. and around 30,000 to 40,000 cases worldwide.
Its only known cause is asbestos exposure, which was common in jobs like construction and manufacturing for most of the 20th century.
Mesothelioma usually develops 10 to 50 years after asbestos exposure, which is why it can take a long time to diagnose.
Where is the most common site of mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma most often develops in the lining of the lungs, called the pleura. This type, known as pleural mesothelioma, is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers that become lodged in the lung tissue over time.
The pleura is crucial in protecting and cushioning the lungs, so this area is particularly vulnerable to asbestos exposure.
Less common forms of mesothelioma can develop in other parts of the body, such as the lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma), or the lining surrounding the testes (testicular mesothelioma).
What is the link between mesothelioma and asbestos?
Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral widely used in the military and many blue-collar industries from the 1930s to the 1980s.
When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can break apart and release tiny particles into the air, which may be breathed in or swallowed. These fibers can then get stuck in the body, leading to damage over time.
Over 10-50 years, this damage can turn into mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer.
Can you reverse mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma cancer cannot be completely reversed, but treatments can help manage the disease. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can slow its progression and improve quality of life.
In some cases, early treatment can lead to long-term remission, where all signs of the cancer disappear.
Ongoing research is focused on finding new ways to treat and potentially cure mesothelioma.
At what age does mesothelioma start?
Mesothelioma usually develops in people over the age of 60, but it can occur at any age. It often takes decades to appear because of its long latency period after asbestos exposure.
People who were exposed to asbestos at a young age may be diagnosed earlier in life. Age, exposure history, and health all affect when mesothelioma may start.
What can you do if you or your loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
A mesothelioma diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but there are important steps you can take to get support and explore your options:
- Start by connecting with a specialist who has experience treating mesothelioma to create a personalized treatment plan.
- Consider joining support groups for emotional guidance and learning from others who have faced similar challenges.
- You may also be eligible for financial compensation to help cover medical costs and other expenses.
At Mesothelioma Hope, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to access helpful resources, connect with top doctors, and explore your options for compensation.
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