Pericardial Mesothelioma - Prognosis, Diagnosis, Treatment, Causes, & More.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that results from exposure to asbestos. Asbestos has been used in building materials since the 1930’s. People at risk for coming into contact with asbestos includes those that have worked in shipyards, with demolition, insulation, asbestos removal, construction and many other industries.
Very few cases of pericardial mesothelioma have been reported. The tumors found in pericardial mesothelioma generally encompass most of the heart. Once inhaled, researchers believe that the asbestos fibers are carried from the lungs in the blood stream and pumped through the heart, lodging in the lining of the heart. The body has difficulty dislodging the asbestos fibers.
At this point the asbestos fibers shred the protective sac or lining that provides lubrication and protects the heart called the pericardium. Constant lubrication is needed for the heart to function properly and an inflammation process begins that causes the cells of the pericardium to transform leading to the growth of cancerous tumors in the expanse of several decades. Cells divide more rapidly once they become cancerous.
Prognosis for Pericardial Mesothelioma
While there is no cure for mesothelioma, advancements have been made in the medical community. The prognosis for this type of cancer is usually six months from the date of diagnosis. There is one case of a patient living five years after being diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma.
Symptoms for Pericardial Mesothelioma
The symptoms for this type of cancer include an irregular, rapid or strong heartbeat, known as heart palpitations or arrhythmia. Another symptom of pericardial mesothelioma is shortness of breath and may also be a sign that the mesothelioma has spread to the lungs. As the cancer spreads it interferes with the pumping of blood and limits the function of the heart causing chest pain. Other symptoms include cough, difficulty breathing, night sweats, fever and fatigue.
Diagnosis for Pericardial Mesothelioma
This type of cancer is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are very similar to other abnormalities of the heart. It may require several tests before a diagnosis is confirmed. Generally, an early diagnosis is nearly impossible because symptoms of the disease do not appear until the final stages. An MRI, biopsies, CT scans, echocardiograms, and x-rays are useful tools to diagnose pericardial mesothelioma. The patient’s symptoms, medical history and family history will need to be assessed.
Treatment Options for Pericardial Mesothelioma
Treatment options may extend the life expectancy and provide for a better quality of life; however, no cure is available. Rarely, surgery can be performed to remove localized tumors. Fine needle aspirations may be performed to relieve the build-up of fluid in the pericardium. A few patients are good prospects for radiation followed-up with chemotherapy to boost the effects of the radiation.
A diagnosed person may be entitled to collect compensation for medical expenses and loss wages. Diagnosis and treatment for pericardial mesothelioma is expensive. You have the right to take legal action against the asbestos industry by completing the form on this page.
