Can Mesothelioma Attack Organs Other Than Lungs?

Exploring the Reach of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is an aggressive and deadly cancer that usually attacks the lungs. However, many people don’t know that this cancer can also invade other organs in the body, causing a lot of damage and affecting treatment options. Here, we will explore the different organs that mesothelioma can attack and provide a comprehensive understanding of this disease.

The Organs that Mesothelioma Can Affect

While mesothelioma is most commonly associated with the lungs, it can spread to other organs. These include:

Organ	Description of Symptoms
Abdomen	Abdominal swelling and pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea
Heart	Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, heart murmur and fluid buildup around the heart
Testicles	Swelling and lumps in the testicles

How Does Mesothelioma Attack Other Organs?

When mesothelioma spreads to other parts of the body, it is known as metastasis. The cancer cells break away from the original tumor and travel through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. Once they reach another organ, they start growing and dividing uncontrollably, causing damage and potentially leading to organ failure.

Factors that Affect the Spread of Mesothelioma

The ability of mesothelioma to spread to other organs depends on various factors, including:

Cancer Stage

The stage of cancer determines how far it has spread from the original site. The higher the stage, the more likely it is to have spread to other organs.

Cell Type

There are three types of mesothelioma cells – epithelioid, sarcomatoid and biphasic. Sarcomatoid cells are more likely to spread to other organs than epithelioid cells.

Treatment

Treatment can also impact the spread of mesothelioma. If the treatment is not effective, this can allow the cancer to spread to other organs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mesothelioma

Q: Is mesothelioma only caused by asbestos exposure?

A: Yes, mesothelioma is primarily caused by asbestos exposure.

Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after asbestos exposure?

A: It can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Q: Is mesothelioma treatable?

A: While there is no cure for mesothelioma, there are treatment options available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Q: What are the common symptoms of mesothelioma?

A: Common symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, abdominal swelling and pain, nausea, and fatigue.

Q: How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

A: Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, and a biopsy.

Q: Is mesothelioma contagious?

A: No, mesothelioma is not contagious.

Q: Can mesothelioma affect younger people?

A: While mesothelioma is more common in older adults, it can affect younger people who have been exposed to asbestos.

Q: Are there any long-term effects of mesothelioma treatment?

A: Mesothelioma treatment can have long-term effects, such as scarring of the lungs, nerve damage, and heart problems.

Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?

A: The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos.

Q: How does asbestos cause mesothelioma?

A: Asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested and can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. Over time, this can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to the development of mesothelioma.

Q: Is surgery a common treatment for mesothelioma?

A: Surgery is one of the treatment options available for mesothelioma, but it is not always the best option depending on the stage and location of the cancer.

Q: Can mesothelioma be diagnosed early?

A: Early diagnosis of mesothelioma is difficult because symptoms of the disease often don’t appear until it has reached an advanced stage.

Q: How is mesothelioma treated?

A: Treatment for mesothelioma can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Q: What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?

A: The prognosis for mesothelioma depends on the stage of the cancer and the individual’s overall health.

Q: What are the risk factors for developing mesothelioma?

A: The main risk factor for developing mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.

Taking Action Against Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a serious disease that requires early detection and prompt treatment. If you have been exposed to asbestos or are experiencing any mesothelioma symptoms, seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of survival and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

While mesothelioma primarily attacks the lungs, it can also spread to other organs in the body, causing significant damage and affecting treatment options. Understanding the reach of mesothelioma is crucial to its effective treatment and management. If you have any concerns about mesothelioma, consult with your doctor and get the support you need to combat this devastating disease.

Closing Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice from a qualified professional.