Hello and welcome to our journal article on plural mesothelioma, a rare and deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. This disease is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. Despite the ban on asbestos, thousands of people worldwide are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year, and many more are at risk due to previous exposure. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of plural mesothelioma, including its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
What is Plural Mesothelioma?
Plural mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs and cause inflammation, scarring, and mutations in the DNA of the pleural mesothelium – the thin layer of tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs.
Over time, these mutations can lead to the development of cancerous cells that grow and spread throughout the pleural mesothelium. Plural mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive and deadly cancer, as it often goes undetected until it has spread to other parts of the body.
Types of Plural Mesothelioma
There are several types of plural mesothelioma, including:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Epithelioid | The most common type, accounting for about 70% of cases. It tends to grow more slowly and respond better to treatment than other types. |
| Sarcomatoid | A rare type that accounts for about 10-20% of cases. It tends to grow more quickly and be more resistant to treatment. |
| Biphasic | A mix of epithelioid and sarcomatoid cells. It accounts for about 20-30% of cases and has characteristics of both types. |
Symptoms of Plural Mesothelioma
The symptoms of plural mesothelioma can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Sweating
These symptoms can develop gradually over time, and may not appear until years or even decades after exposure to asbestos. If you have a history of asbestos exposure and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Diagnosing Plural Mesothelioma
Diagnosing plural mesothelioma can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other lung conditions, and the cancer often does not show up on x-rays or other imaging tests until it has reached an advanced stage.
However, there are several diagnostic tests that can help detect and confirm the presence of plural mesothelioma, including:
- Chest x-rays
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- PET scans
- Lung function tests
- Biopsies
If you are at risk of mesothelioma due to previous exposure to asbestos, it is important to undergo regular screenings to detect any early signs of the disease.
Treating Plural Mesothelioma
There is currently no cure for plural mesothelioma, but there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and prolong survival. The choice of treatment will depend on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences.
Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for plural mesothelioma, as it can help remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible and prevent it from spreading further. There are several types of surgery that may be used, including:
- Pleurectomy and decortication (P/D), which involves removing the pleura and any visible tumors while preserving the lung.
- Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), which involves removing the pleura, lung, diaphragm, and pericardium on one side of the body.
Surgery may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It may be used before or after surgery, or as a standalone treatment for patients who are not eligible for surgery. Radiation therapy can help relieve pain, coughing, and other symptoms of plural mesothelioma, but it can also cause side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, and difficulty swallowing.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and prevent them from multiplying. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery and/or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy can help shrink tumors and improve symptoms, but it can also cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of infection.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a newer form of treatment that uses drugs to boost the body’s immune system and help it fight cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments. Immunotherapy can help improve survival rates and reduce the risk of recurrence, but it can also cause side effects such as fatigue, fever, and skin rashes.
Prognosis for Plural Mesothelioma
The prognosis for plural mesothelioma is generally poor, as the cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and is resistant to many forms of treatment. However, survival rates vary depending on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and response to treatment.
According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is approximately 10%. However, some patients may live longer with early detection and aggressive treatment. It is important to talk to your doctor about your individual prognosis and treatment options.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between plural mesothelioma and other types of mesothelioma?
Plural mesothelioma specifically affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall, while other types of mesothelioma may affect the lining of other organs such as the abdomen or heart.
2. Can exposure to asbestos cause plural mesothelioma years or even decades later?
Yes, plural mesothelioma often develops years or even decades after exposure to asbestos, as it can take a long time for the cancer to develop and progress.
3. Is there a cure for plural mesothelioma?
Currently, there is no cure for plural mesothelioma, but there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and prolong survival.
4. Can plural mesothelioma be prevented?
The best way to prevent plural mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry that uses or produces asbestos, be sure to follow proper safety protocols and wear protective gear.
5. How can I find out if I have been exposed to asbestos?
If you have a history of working with or around asbestos, or if you live in a building that contains asbestos, you may be at risk of exposure. Talk to your doctor about getting regular screenings to detect any early signs of mesothelioma.
Conclusion
Plural mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until the 1980s. Although there is no cure for plural mesothelioma, there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and prolong survival. If you have a history of asbestos exposure and are experiencing any symptoms of plural mesothelioma, it is important to see a doctor right away. With early detection and aggressive treatment, some patients may be able to live longer and enjoy a better quality of life.