Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue that lines the lungs, chest wall, abdomen, and, less commonly, the heart and testicles. The disease is most often linked to past exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals once widely used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries. Because the disease develops slowly and its early signs can resemble common illnesses, many people do not recognize the symptoms until the cancer has advanced.
Why symptoms appear late
Mesothelioma has a long latency period, often 20 to 50 years between asbestos exposure and the appearance of symptoms. This means a person who worked around asbestos in the 1970s or 1980s may not notice any problems until decades later. The symptoms also depend on where the tumor forms, which is why the disease is grouped by location.
Pleural mesothelioma (chest)
Pleural mesothelioma, which forms in the lining of the lungs, is the most common type. Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- A persistent, dry cough
- Chest pain or tightness, often under the rib cage
- Fluid buildup around the lungs, known as pleural effusion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Fever or night sweats
Because these symptoms overlap with pneumonia, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions, they are often treated as such at first. If symptoms do not improve with treatment, further testing may be needed.
Peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen)
Peritoneal mesothelioma forms in the lining of the abdominal cavity. Symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- A feeling of fullness or a lump in the abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Fluid buildup in the abdomen, called ascites, is also common and can cause noticeable swelling.
Rarer forms
Pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining around the heart, can cause chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Testicular mesothelioma, the rarest form, may appear as a mass or swelling in the scrotum. Both are extremely uncommon.
When to talk to a doctor
There is no routine screening test for mesothelioma in the general population. Anyone who has a history of asbestos exposure — even decades ago — and develops any of these symptoms should discuss that history with a doctor. Early diagnosis can open up more treatment options, though the disease remains difficult to treat. A doctor may order imaging scans, blood tests, or a biopsy to determine the cause of symptoms.
Asbestos exposure in Missouri
Missouri has a long industrial history that includes asbestos use in factories, power plants, railroads, and older commercial and residential buildings. Vermiculite ore contaminated with asbestos was also processed at facilities in the state. People who worked in these settings, or who lived with someone who did, may have been exposed. Homeowners renovating older Missouri homes should also be aware that insulation, flooring, and other materials may contain asbestos and should be handled by trained professionals.
If you or a family member were exposed to asbestos in Missouri and are experiencing symptoms, a healthcare provider can help determine the next steps. This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
