Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma, like pleural
mesothelioma, is also caused by exposure to asbestos
in most cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma, however, differs
in that it originates in the abdomen instead of the
chest. Accounting for about 20 percent of all mesothelioma
cases, this form of disease affects the peritoneum—the
mesothelium that surrounds the organs of the abdomen.
There are a number of theories on how asbestos fibers
make their way deep into the abdomen to cause malignant
mesothelioma to develop. Some suggest that asbestos fibers,
broken into smaller, sharper fibers within the lungs,
eventually enter the blood stream and become lodged in
the peritoneum. Another theory is that asbestos is inadvertently
ingested when people consume foods and beverages contaminated
by the small fibers from clothing, hair, and general
exposure from asbestos hanging in the air. Likely, the
answer is that many different means of ingestion are
responsible, but it is known that asbestos is the only
proven cause of peritoneal mesothelioma.
Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Less is reported about peritoneal mesothelioma in terms
of exactly what goes on in the body as this form of the
disease progresses. But it is similar to the pleural form
in that peritoneal mesothelioma has a very long latency
period (between 25 and 40 years), and is usually discovered
late in its progression. Patients will typically experience
fluid build-up in the abdomen and accompanying swelling
and discomfort. Severe pain can often be a sign of tumor
growth.
Additional symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:
- Stomach Pain
- Nausea
- Weight Loss
- Vomiting
- Swollen Feet
- Impaired Bowel Function
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the above
symptoms - especially if there is a known history of asbestos
exposure - it is important to see a physician as soon as
possible. Early diagnosis is
one of the most important factors in battling mesothelioma.
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