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Pleural mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs and is the most common form of asbestos cancer mesothelioma. Between 70 and 75 percent of all cases of the disease are pleural. The thickening or scarring of your lungs from asbestos inflammation causes the buildup of fluids between membrane layers putting pressure on your lungs and respiratory system.
The most noticeable symptoms of the disease include a persistent dry cough, chest pain or pain when breathing, and difficulty swallowing. You also may experience fatigue and unexplained weight loss plus swelling of your face and arms.
Peritoneal mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining around the abdominal cavity and is a more uncommon form of the disease, accounting for only 10 to 20 percent of all cases. It causes fluids to secret into your peritoneal lining leading to abdominal swelling, which exerts pressure on your internal organs and prevents their normal function. Peritoneal mesothelioma tumors are aggressive. They also kill healthy cells in the abdominal cavity and metastasize (spread) more quickly than other types of the disease.
Abdominal pain will be your first noticeable symptom. As peritoneal mesothelioma progresses, in addition to abdominal swelling, you’ll experience nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss and changes in bowel habits.
Pericardial mesothelioma
Pericardial mesothelioma is rare and affects only about six percent of all cases of the malignant cancer disease. It develops in the pericardium, which lines the heart to provide protection and support
Once asbestos fibers become lodged in your pericardium, the resulting chronic inflammation leads to cancerous growths that cause fluid buildup, which interferes with heart function. Your symptoms will be similar to those of pleural mesothelioma: chest pain, persistent cough, shortness of breath and extreme fatigue even with little exertion.
Testicular mesothelioma
Testicular mesothelioma is the most rare form of the disease with only 100 cases of the disease reported. It develops in the membranous lining of the testicle. Because of its rarity, it has no recognized symptoms. The appearance of lumps in the testicles is the only way doctors can diagnose the disease.
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