Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer that develops in the peritoneum, which is the thin membrane that lines the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs. It is the second most common type of mesothelioma, after pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the lining of the lungs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was once widely used in construction and other industries. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or ingested, and they can become lodged in the peritoneum, where they can irritate the cells and lead to cancer.
The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. However, some common symptoms include:
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to diagnose because it often mimics the symptoms of other, less serious conditions. Additionally, it can be difficult to detect on imaging tests. As a result, peritoneal mesothelioma is often diagnosed at a late stage, when it has already spread throughout the abdomen.
As of 2023, there is no cure for peritoneal mesothelioma, but treatment can help to relieve symptoms and prolong life. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
In recent years, there have been some advances in the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma. One promising treatment is a combination of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). CRS is a surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. HIPEC is a type of chemotherapy that is delivered directly to the abdomen during surgery.
Another promising treatment is immunotherapy, which uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy is still in its early stages of development for peritoneal mesothelioma, but it has shown promise in some clinical trials.
The prognosis for peritoneal mesothelioma varies depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis and the patient's overall health. However, the five-year survival rate for all stages of peritoneal mesothelioma is low.
Avoiding exposure to asbestos is the best way to prevent peritoneal mesothelioma. Working in an industry that exposes you to asbestos requires extra precautions to protect yourself, such as wearing a respirator and avoiding direct contact with the asbestos-containing materials.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and you are experiencing any of the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your prognosis.
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