Peritoneal mesothelioma can be either malignant (cancerous) or benign (non cancerous). On this page we will be discussing malignant peritonneal meseothelioma.
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the peritoneum. This is the Mesothelium surrounding the organs in the abdomen.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a cancerous tumor on the peritoneum. About 20% of all mesotheliom cases affect the peritoneum.
By far the main risk factor for peritonel mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. However, it maybe many years after the exposure before the cancer develops. Asbestos fibers can get into the peritoneum through swallowing them. It is also possible to inhale them and for the fibers to then travel to the peritoneum through the lymphatic system.
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include abdonmial pain, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling, weight loss, weakness and nausea.
As the cancer progresses, fluid can build up in the abdomen. This is known as ascites. As the tumor gets larger it can put pressure on the other organs in the abdominal cavity. This can often lead to problems with the bowel. The growth of the tumor can also give difficulties with breathing and can cause pain as the tumor presses on sensitive areas.
A biopsy is usually required in order to make a full diagnosis. This will often be done during a peritoneoscopy – the procedure used to look inside the peritoneum. The biopsy sample will then be examined by a pathologist.
Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery. The success of these often depends on how early the cancer is detected and treated.