Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial Mesothelioma is the rarest form of asbestos-related cancer. It accounts for about 5-15% of diagnosed mesothelioma. Pericardial mesothelioma attacks the lining surrounding the heart, or the pericardium. As mesothelioma develops in the pericardium, tumors grow and eventually surround the heart, the tumors prevent it from effectively pumping blood throughout the body and restrict space used for the heart to expand.

Like pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma has a latency period of several decades. Additionally, symptoms usually do not appear until the cancer is in its final stages. Pericardial mesothelioma is generally regarded as the most painful form of the disease. Symptoms include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and constant coughing. As with other forms of mesothelioma, symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are easily mistaken for other illnesses, and physicians should be informed of any prior exposure to asbestos. Additionally, regular pulmonary check-ups are recommended for those who have suffered long-term asbestos exposure.

To diagnose pericardial mesothelioma, doctors usually begin by taking X-Rays of the chest area, MRIs and CT (or CAT) scans. These tests detect the presence of any abnormalities and growths in the area surrounding the heart. If there is an abnormality, a biopsy is usually performed to collect tissue of the infected area. However, like other forms of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma is not usually detected until its later stages. Patients suffering from pericardial mesothelioma typically survive for about 6 weeks to 12 months after diagnosis.

Additionally, many of the treatments available for mesothelioma lose effectiveness as the disease progresses. Unfortunately this means that treatment and procedures suggested by doctors are usually palliative rather than curative. Most treatment options are to help reduce pain and to relieve symptoms of the disease. For many victims of pericardial mesothelioma, the main priority is to maintain a quality of life free from pain for the remainder of their lives. The age of the victim, as well as general health and personal wishes should always be taken into consideration when trying to decide on a practical treatment plan.

Palliative treatment options include:

Radiation therapy: Radiation uses high frequency x-rays and is typically used to reduce fluid collection in the mesothelium surrounding the heart.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can be administered orally or intravenously, and uses drugs that travel through the blood stream killing cancer cells. However, chemotherapy is an extremely aggressive form of treatment and will probably detract from the patient.s quality of life.

Surgery: Surgery is rarely performed on patients in Stage IV mesothelioma to reduce fluid collection and increase the patient.s quality of life. However, if the disease is diagnosed early enough surgery can be performed to remove the affected portion of the heart.

Additionally, treatments such as photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, angiogenesis inhibitors and immunotherapy are currently undergoing clinical trials. Complimentary and alternative therapies can help to increase the lifespan and provide comfort for those affected with mesothelioma. Pain control medications are also important for those suffering from pericardial mesothelioma.

Unfortunately, pericardial Mesothelioma is a nearly always a death sentence. While medical science does not know why or how asbestos fibers cause mesothelial cells to become cancerous, we do know that asbestos fibers can start a tumor as well as promote its growth. The tumor relies on no other process for its development. Therefore, the main preventative measure against mesothelioma is to avoid contact with asbestos.

Last modified: April 14, 2009