Peritoneal Mesothelioma
About Peritoneal Mesothelioma
The mesothelium is a thin layer of tissue that encases organs and produces a liquid that lubricates the exterior of our organs, allowing them to move against each other freely. Exposure to asbestos can trigger peritoneal Mesothelioma, a cancer of the mesothelium that surrounds the abdomen cavity. Symptoms of Mesothelioma may not appear for 20 to 30 years after exposure to asbestos. The disease is always fatal, however, treatments are available that may reduce the spread of the cancer and prolong life.
According to the American Cancer Society, 10 to 20 percent of all Mesothelioma cases begin in the abdomen.
Symptoms of peritoneal Mesothelioma do not appear until the malignant tumors have grown to a late stage of development. Symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen
- A mass in the abdomen
- Problems with bowel function
- Weight loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Because symptoms of peritoneal Mesothelioma are late to develop, by the time the cancer is detected, it may have spread to other sites within the body, including the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.
Diagnosis of peritoneal Mesothelioma involves imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans. If abnormal masses or a build up of fluid is identified, a biopsy of the fluid or tissue may be performed to determine if they are cancerous.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma is not curable, but it can be treated with chemotherapy and radiation. Several chemotherapy drugs are used in treatment regiments for peritoneal Mesothelioma.
The attorneys of the Deaton Law Firm represent people with peritoneal Mesothelioma and other types of asbestos-related diseases. For a free consultation and case evaluation, please contact our law firm today.
From our office in Providence, our Mesothelioma lawyers throughout the nation including Rhode Island, Florida, Philadelphia.