What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma develops in the thin layer of tissue lining certain parts of the body. It forms after a person has been exposed to asbestos, a harmful mineral that was used in construction and hundreds of other industries for most of the 20th century.
This cancer develops very slowly. People may go years or even decades after asbestos exposure without knowing anything is wrong. Many patients first visit their doctor when they start experiencing symptoms like chest pain, trouble breathing, or stomach discomfort.
Key Facts on Malignant Mesothelioma Cancer
- It’s directly linked to asbestos exposure.
- U.S. veterans make up nearly 33% of all diagnosed cases.
- It most commonly affects the area around the lungs or abdomen.
- Financial compensation is often available for patients and families.
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, you don’t have to walk this path alone. Get our Free Mesothelioma Guide shipped overnight to get the information you need to move forward.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the only proven cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was commonly used in products like insulation, roofing, cement, and brake pads because it was cheap, strong, and fire-resistant.
When asbestos-containing materials are cut, broken, or disturbed, tiny fibers are released into the air. If those fibers are breathed in or swallowed, they can settle in the delicate tissue around the lungs or abdomen and stay there for decades. Eventually, this can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, 10 to 50 years after exposure.
Unfortunately, the dangers of asbestos were hidden by private companies for years, putting millions of workers, military veterans, and families at risk. Even short-term or secondary exposure through someone who worked with asbestos can increase your risk of mesothelioma.
High-Risk Occupations for Mesothelioma
- Automotive repair (especially brakes and clutches)
- Construction and demolition
- Manufacturing plants and steel mills
- Military service, particularly in the U.S. Navy
- Power plants and oil refineries
- Shipbuilding and shipyard work
Even short-term asbestos exposure can increase the risk of mesothelioma. Unfortunately, companies that made and used asbestos products often knew the risks and failed to warn the public.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are four main types of mesothelioma. Each one forms in a different part of the body, which impacts symptoms, treatment options, and outcomes. Knowing your specific type of mesothelioma is an important first step in building your care plan.
Pleural Mesothelioma (Lung Lining)
Pleural mesothelioma starts in the lining of the lungs (pleura) and chest wall. It’s the most common type, making up more than 75% of all cases of mesothelioma, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
If you’ve been diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, you might have experienced chest pain, shortness of breath, or a dry cough. These symptoms are often mistaken for something less serious, so it’s normal to feel surprised after a diagnosis.
The average life expectancy for pleural mesothelioma is 8-22 months.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdominal Lining)
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common type, accounting for 10% to 15% of all cases, according to MD Anderson Cancer Center. This type starts in the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum), the same area that protects your stomach and other organs.
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).
Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart Lining)
Pericardial mesothelioma begins in the pericardium — the sac-like tissue surrounding the heart. It makes up less than 1% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.
Common symptoms may include chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, or shortness of breath. Because these symptoms overlap with many heart-related conditions, pericardial mesothelioma is often diagnosed late or during surgery for another issue.
Due to the cancer’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. This type of mesothelioma is often diagnosed at an earlier stage than other forms, and many patients respond well to treatment.
Testicular mesothelioma has an average life expectancy of 46.7 months.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
The symptoms of mesothelioma come on slowly and can be mild at first. Signs like a cough, fatigue, or stomach pain might be dismissed or mistaken for the flu, pneumonia, or even acid reflux. As the cancer grows, the symptoms become harder to ignore.
You may notice:
- Abdominal pain and/or chest pain
- Fever
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Fluid buildup in the chest (pleural effusion)
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Night sweats
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
Talk to a doctor if you or a family member has any of these symptoms. Trust your instincts, and keep pushing for answers until you feel heard and your concerns are fully addressed.
“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.”
How Is Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing mesothelioma isn’t always easy. The symptoms often look like those of other, more common conditions, so doctors usually have to run several tests to rule things out and get a clearer picture. If you’ve had any level of asbestos exposure — even decades ago — it’s important to mention it early. That one detail can help doctors consider mesothelioma sooner.
Here’s what the diagnosis process usually looks like:
1. Medical History and Physical Exam
The first step is talking with your doctor about your symptoms and any past exposure to asbestos. This might include jobs you’ve held, places you’ve lived, or secondhand exposure from a family member who worked around asbestos.
During the exam, the doctor may check for things like swelling, fluid buildup, or unusual breathing sounds.
2. Imaging Tests
If something seems off, your doctor will likely order imaging scans to look inside your chest or abdomen.
These may include:
- X-rays to spot fluid buildup or obvious masses
- CT scans to give a more detailed view of your organs and tissues
- MRI or PET scans if more detailed imaging is needed to see how far the cancer may have spread
These scans can’t confirm mesothelioma on their own, but they help doctors spot warning signs and decide what to look at more closely.
3. Biopsy
A biopsy is the only way to confirm whether or not you have mesothelioma. This means removing a small sample of tissue or fluid from the chest, lungs, or abdomen.
There are a few ways to do this:
- Needle biopsy: A thin needle is used to draw out fluid or tissue (often guided by imaging).
- Surgical biopsy: A small operation allows the doctor to take a larger sample if needed.
- Thoracoscopy or laparoscopy: These are minimally invasive procedures using a camera to look inside the chest or abdomen and collect samples.
The sample is then examined under a microscope to check for mesothelioma cells.
Avoiding a Misdiagnosis
Mesothelioma often gets mistaken for other types of cancer or different conditions, like lung cancer or pneumonia. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 cases are misdiagnosed, according to a report in Open Epidemiology.
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. A specialist can verify your diagnosis, stage, and cell type — all of which can impact your treatment plan.
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.
Understanding Mesothelioma Stages: What You Need to Know
When you’re first diagnosed with mesothelioma, one of the most important things your doctor will determine is the stage of the cancer. This describes how far the cancer has spread in your body. Knowing the stage helps guide which treatments you may be eligible for and what to expect moving forward.
There are four stages of mesothelioma, with stage 1 being early and more treatable, and stage 4 being more advanced and harder to control.
- Early Stages (1 & 2)
The cancer is mostly in one area, usually the chest lining. There are often more treatment options, and some people may qualify for surgery or aggressive therapies. - Advanced Stages (3 & 4)
The cancer has spread more widely in the body. Treatment is usually focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, but chemotherapy and immunotherapy may still help slow the disease.
These stages only apply to pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma doesn’t have a formal staging system like pleural mesothelioma does. Instead, doctors usually describe it as either localized (limited to one area) or advanced (has spread more widely).
Determining Mesothelioma Cell Type
When you’re diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to know not just where the cancer is, but also what kind of cancer cells you have. Mesothelioma is grouped into three main cell types, and each one behaves and responds differently to treatment. Understanding your cell type helps your doctors choose the best treatment plan for you.
The 3 Main Mesothelioma Cell Types
- Epithelioid: This is the most common type, found in over half of all patients.
- Sarcomatoid: This is the rarest and most aggressive cell type.
- Biphasic: This type has a mix of both epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells.
Knowing your specific cell type helps your care team personalize your treatment. Some therapies work better for certain cell types than others. For example, patients with epithelioid mesothelioma may be good candidates for surgery, while other cell types might need a less intensive approach.
Treatment Options for Malignant Mesothelioma Cancer
Every mesothelioma patient can benefit from treatment, whether to live longer or improve their quality of life. Mesothelioma treatments can be used on their own or combined to attack the cancer from multiple angles. The right choice of treatment depends on things like the type of mesothelioma, how far it’s spread, and the cell type.
Common mesothelioma treatments include:
- Surgery: Removes the cancer and nearby affected tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Uses medicine to kill cancer cells. It can be used on its own or along with surgery.
- Immunotherapy: Helps the patient’s immune system fight cancer. Drugs like Opdivo®, Yervoy®, and Keytruda® are approved for treating mesothelioma.
- Radiation therapy: Uses strong energy beams to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells.
- Tumor treating fields: Uses mild electrical waves from patches on the chest to slow the cancer’s growth. Combined with chemotherapy for the best results.
- Palliative care: Focuses on relieving pain and symptoms to help patients feel more comfortable.
- Clinical trials: Studies that test new treatments like targeted therapy or cancer vaccines, which may help patients live longer.
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.
“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.”
Finding the Right Mesothelioma Doctor
Mesothelioma is very different from more common cancers, so it’s essential to work with a medical team that has specific experience treating it. Mesothelioma specialists are experts in understanding how this disease behaves and how best to treat it.
They stay up to date on the latest therapies and clinical trials, and they often work as part of a larger team that includes surgeons, oncologists, and palliative care experts. Working with a mesothelioma specialist can make a real difference in your treatment options, quality of life, and even life expectancy. Many patients who live longer than expected credit their outcomes to the expertise and personalized care they received from a specialist.
Top Mesothelioma Specialists
- Dr. Raphael Bueno – Treats pleural mesothelioma
- Dr. Raja Flores – Treats pleural mesothelioma
- Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler – Treats pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma
- Dr. James Pingpank – Treats peritoneal mesothelioma
- Dr. Mecker Möller – Treats peritoneal mesothelioma
- Dr. Taylor Ripley – Treats pleural mesothelioma
Use our Free Doctor Match to connect with these specialists and other experienced providers who can help you navigate your diagnosis and treatment options.
Mesothelioma Prognosis
A prognosis is your doctor’s best estimate of what to expect after a mesothelioma diagnosis, including how the cancer may progress and how long you might live with it. But it’s important to remember that this is just an estimate based on general trends.
Many factors can affect your prognosis, including:
- Your age and overall health
- The type and stage of mesothelioma
- The cell type of your cancer
- How well your body responds to treatment
The good news is that every case is different, and treatment can often improve your prognosis. Some patients live much longer than expected — sometimes by months, years, or even decades.
John’s Mesothelioma 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 unwavering support of his wife, Dee, and a team of experienced mesothelioma specialists, he began chemotherapy tailored specifically for advanced pleural mesothelioma. While the treatments came with challenges, John remained committed to staying active and doing the things he loves.
“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 has lived several years past his prognosis, far exceeding the average life expectancy for stage 4 mesothelioma, which is typically less than one year. His experience shows it’s possible to live a normal life with mesothelioma.
Living With Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a life-altering diagnosis, but it’s not the end of your story. Thanks to new treatments and a growing community of support, there’s more hope today than ever before for living a meaningful, fulfilling life with mesothelioma.
While your medical care is critically important, living with mesothelioma also means deciding how you want to move forward. It’s about creating a new normal that works for you.
- Decide What Matters Most
Think about what you want your life to look like during treatment. Whether it’s traveling, spending time with loved ones, or simply finding peace in each day, your care plan should reflect your values and goals. - Access Free Resources
Take advantage of free support resources, including mesothelioma information, help from Patient Advocates, legal and financial guidance, counseling, transportation assistance, and more. - Keep Living Fully
Even with mesothelioma, life can still hold joy and meaning. Many patients continue doing what they love, celebrating milestones, and staying active in their communities. - Lean on Support
You’re not alone in this. Surround yourself with people who care: your family, close friends, support groups, and your medical team. These connections can make a big difference in how you feel day to day.
Living with mesothelioma isn’t just about surviving — it’s about continuing to live life on your terms. With the right care and guidance, many patients find a routine that works for them.
Pursuing Financial Compensation After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
A mesothelioma diagnosis often brings unexpected financial pressure. For many families, this adds another layer of stress during an already difficult time. What you might not know is that there is financial compensation available specifically for people impacted by mesothelioma.
You may be eligible for support through:
- Asbestos trust funds: Many companies that used asbestos have created trust funds to pay people harmed by their products. These funds hold billions of dollars and are available without the need for a lawsuit.
- Legal claims: In some cases, you can file a legal claim against the companies responsible for your asbestos exposure. Many of these claims are settled privately and result in compensation to help cover medical care and other expenses.
- Veterans benefits: Veterans exposed to asbestos during their military service may qualify for monthly disability compensation through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
If you’re unsure where to begin, our team can help explain your options, gather the right paperwork, and guide you through next steps. Many families we work with begin receiving compensation in 90 days or less.
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.
You can take these important steps to move forward:
- Arm yourself with information about your diagnosis
- Work with our nurses to schedule appointments with top specialists
- Seek out mental health support or peer mentorship
- Find out if you’re eligible for compensation to help cover your treatment
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 here for you.
Mesothelioma Cancer FAQs
What is the main cause of mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure causes 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 nontraditional settings.
What is the link between asbestos and mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma develops when someone is exposed to asbestos. 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 asbestos cancer.
How rare is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a very 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 10-50 years after asbestos exposure, which is why it can take a long time to diagnose.
Who is most at risk for 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 ever worked in these industries, stay aware of the risks and see a doctor if you notice any symptoms — even if they seem mild or vague.
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.
What is the survival rate for mesothelioma?
The 5-year survival rate for mesothelioma is about 10%, meaning about 1 in 10 patients are still alive 5 years after diagnosis.
However, survival rates can vary significantly based on:
- Available treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy
- Cancer stage at diagnosis
- Cell type (epithelioid, sarcomatoid, biphasic)
- Patient’s age and overall health
- Type of mesothelioma (pleural, peritoneal, pericardial)
Some patients, particularly those with early-stage disease and epithelioid cell type, can live well beyond the average. Peritoneal mesothelioma treated with surgery and heated chemotherapy (HIPEC) has a notably higher survival rate, with some studies reporting 5-year survival rates of 40-50%.
Is mesothelioma 100% fatal?
No. Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer, but it is not a guaranteed death sentence. Many patients who were diagnosed with mesothelioma have gone on to live 20 or more years after their diagnosis.
Specialized treatment plans can help you or your loved one live longer.
Is mesothelioma cancer?
Yes, mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that develops in the protective lining of certain organs. It is caused exclusively by exposure to asbestos.
The most common type of mesothelioma forms in the lining of the lungs, known as the pleura. The second most common type develops in the abdominal lining, called the peritoneum.
Both types are considered asbestos cancers, and knowing where the cancer started helps doctors recommend the most effective treatment options.
Can you reverse mesothelioma?
You can’t completely reverse mesothelioma, but treatments can help manage the disease. Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, 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.
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 want to consider pursuing 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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