Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is a form of cancer linked to asbestos. This type of mesothelioma affects the pericardium, which is the lining of the heart muscle. It can also affect the lining of the lungs. This is a rare form of mesothelioma, which in itself is a rare disease. 

Mesothelioma Causes 

Like other forms of mesothelioma is the only cause long periods of exposure to asbestos dust and fibers. This dust is a byproduct of the construction, maintenance and repair of the things that contain asbestos. It is believed that asbestos fibers are broken down into the lungs and sent through the bloodstream to the pericardium and serous membranes. The lymphatic system can also play a role in the spread of asbestos fibers to other parts of the body. 

Mesothelioma Symptoms 

Exposure to asbestos does not result in mesothelioma immediately. Symptoms may take 30 years or longer time and may not even occur until the later stages of the disease. Therefore it is important to understand what are the symptoms so the diagnosis can be made as soon as possible. 

Many of the symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are the same as for pleural mesothelioma include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Chronic cough
• Fatigue after exertion light

These symptoms are the result of fluid accumulating around the heart caused by the non-cancerous tumor direct symptoms of mesothelioma itself. The symptoms that are specific for pericardial mesothelioma are low blood pressure, fainting, fluid retention in the legs, and heart palpitations. 

Diagnosis of Disease 

Anyone experiencing the symptoms described here should see a doctor immediately. The first part of treatment for pericardial mesothelioma is to achieve a prompt and accurate diagnosis. 

Reaching an accurate diagnosis begins with a medical history, including questions about possible exposure to mesothelioma. The next logical step is testing image from X-rays to obtain an understanding of heart health. After radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging is likely to be carried out. A biopsy of affected tissue is often used to confirm or exclude the presence of mesothelioma in the lining of the heart. 

Researchers are looking for new and more accurate ways to detect mesothelioma. The new methods may make the chances for early detection more likely. 

The treatment of the disease 

Treatment can begin after a confirmed diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma. Since there is no cure for mesothelioma, treatment is limited to procedures that can prolong patients' lives and make the patient feel in the time remaining. Research is ongoing to find new ways to treat and even cure mesothelioma. 

Treatment options include radiation, chemotherapy, surgery and medication. The disease must be caught in early stages before surgery is a viable option. Radiation is very successful and is used to kill cancer cells and to shrink the tumor. Chemotherapy is usually the second option, but has side effects. 

There are procedures that are used quite often to remove fluid that has accumulated in the lining of the heart or chest. While not treat the disease itself, these procedures are successful in relieving pain that can cause fluid.