What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that spreads from Mesothelium cells.The Mesothelium provides a protective cover for many internal body organs.

Mesothelioma or malignant Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer and is often seen in patients who have been exposed to asbestos over a period of time. Mesothelioma might typically manifest itself in jobs where there is a constant exposure to asbestos dust which is easily ingested.

Mesothelioma commonly attacks the pleura which is the outer protective covering of the lungs and the chest wall. However, this cancer has also been observed in the peritoneum (abdominal cavity lining), the pericardium (heart sac lining) and the tunica vaginalis (testicular sac lining).

Although smoking is believed to increase the risk of some asbestos related cancers there is no evidence to date that would suggest that smoking causes Mesothelioma.