mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of many body cavities such as the lungs, chest, and abdomen.
Is mesothelioma the deadliest cancer?
What is the main cause of mesothelioma?
Causes of mesothelioma
The main risk factor for mesothelioma is previous exposure to asbestos, which are small particles that are used to insulate and heat homes.
The use of this substance has become limited at present, and there are strict safety directives in the event of dealing with this substance or around it.
However, the negative effects of asbestos were not known in the past decades when its use was more widespread, so older people who were exposed to asbestos at a young age have a greater chance of getting sick.
Asbestos-related cancers can take decades to develop, so if you were exposed to asbestos more than 20 years ago, you may still be at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Studies have also proven that smoking may increase the chance of developing cancers related to asbestos.
Mesothelioma symptoms
- Fluid collects in the lungs or abdomen.
- breathing difficulties.
- pain in the chest.
- Abdominal pain or swelling.
- The presence of a mass in the abdomen.
Mesothelioma Diagnostic Tests
Computed tomography/positron emission tomography to identify any organ or tissue abnormality.
Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is to obtain images of the lungs and surrounding areas to detect the presence of any tumors, and this technique can also be used to obtain a biopsy of lung tissue.
Pulmonary function tests (PFT) monitor breathing and evaluate how well the lungs are working.
Sputum cytology is a microscopic examination of cells from a sample of lung mucus.
Bronchoscopy to examine the airways of the lungs.
Needle aspiration through the chest to obtain a sample of lung tissue for examination under a microscope.
Blood tests (CBC).
Mesothelioma treatment at King Hussein Cancer Center
A treatment plan is developed based on the size of the tumor and the stage of the disease. The treatment plan may include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.