Overview Of Malignant Pleura Mesothelioma (MPM)
Malignant pleura mesothelioma (MPM) is an uncommon cancerous tumor. It mainly affects the lining of the lung and chest cavity (pleura) or lining of the abdomen (peritoneum). It is due to long-term asbestos exposure.
Commonly Associated With
Mesothelioma – malignant
Causes Of Malignant Pleura Mesothelioma (MPM)
Long-term exposure to asbestos is the biggest risk factor. Asbestos is a fire-resistant material. It was once commonly found in insulation, ceiling and roofing vinyls, cement, and car brakes. Even though many asbestos workers smoked, experts do not believe smoking itself is a cause of this condition.
Men are affected more often than women. The average age at diagnosis is 60 years. Most people seem to develop the condition about 30 years after being in contact with the asbestos.
Symptoms Of Malignant Pleura Mesothelioma (MPM)
Symptoms may not appear until 20 to 40 years or longer after exposure to asbestos, and may include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Chest pain, especially when taking a deep breath
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
- Fever and sweating
Exams & Tests
The health care provider will do an examination and ask the person about their symptoms and medical history.
Tests that may be done include:
- Chest x-ray
- Chest CT scan
- Cytology of pleural fluid
- Open lung biopsy
- Pleural biopsy
Mesothelioma is often hard to diagnose. Under the microscope, it can be hard to tell this disease apart from similar conditions and tumors.
Treatment Of Malignant Pleura Mesothelioma (MPM)
Malignant pleura mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to treat.
There is usually no cure, unless the disease is found very early and the tumor can be completely removed with surgery. Most of the time, when the disease is diagnosed, it is too advanced for surgery. Chemotherapy or radiation may be used to reduce symptoms. Combining certain chemotherapy drugs may help decrease symptoms, but it will not cure the cancer.
Untreated, most people survive about 9 months.
Participating in a clinical trial (test of new treatments), may give the person more treatment options.
Pain relief, oxygen, and other supportive treatments may also help relieve symptoms.
