Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that occurs in the thin tissue that lines most of the internal organs (mesothelium). The doctor divides mesothelioma into several types based on which part of this cancer occurs. Among others:
- Malignant pleural mesothelioma, which occurs in the tissue lining around the lungs and is the most common type.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma, occurring in tissues that line the stomach.
- Pericardial mesothelioma, occurring in the tissue lining around the heart.
- Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis, occurs in the lining around the testicles.
The mesothelioma symptoms varies based on where the cancer occurs. The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
• Shortness of breath
• Pain when breathing
• Pain when coughing
• Pain in the lower rib
• An unusual lump in the chest under the skin layer
• Lost weight suddenly
• Dry cough
The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, signs and symptoms include:
• Pain in abdomen
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Changes in bowel movements, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation
• Lump in the tissues in the abdominal area
• Lost weight suddenly
The symptoms of other forms of mesothelioma
The symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma and tunica vaginalis are unclear. There is no complete information about this. Pericardial mesothelioma have signs and symptoms that may include difficulty breathing or chest pain. While mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis can be detected first by the enlargement of the testicles.
