Types
Pleural Mesothelioma
More than 70 percent of all mesothelioma cases begin in the pleural region. Pleural mesothelioma spreads through the chest cavity, and will occasionally develop in the lungs. The disease most commonly causes excess build-up of fluid inside the chest cavity called pleural effusion. The excess fluid increases pressure on the lungs thus restricting breathing and creating a condition called dyspnea. In addition to the fluid, as the mesothelioma progresses, the malignant cells can cause the pleural lining to thicken and restrict breathing space even further.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of the disease, and accounts for less than 30 percent of all cases. In this type of mesothelioma, malignant cells form in the peritoneum, affecting the abdomen, bowel, liver and spleen. As with pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma also causes a build up of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Typical bodily functions, such as digestion and bowel movements can become restricted and painful. Symptoms include pain or swelling of the abdomen, weight loss and nausea.
Other Types of Mesothelioma
Other very rare forms of mesothelioma occur in the pericardium (less than 5% of cases), as well as the mesothelium of the male and female reproductive organs (testicular mesothelioma in males). Cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum, another rare form of the disease, occurs predominantly in women and is more benign in nature.
