Complete Guide to Mesothelioma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Centers
Learn about mesothelioma, its causes, symptoms depending on affected organs, and top treatment centers. Early diagnosis and specialized care are vital for managing this aggressive cancer linked to asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer impacting the lining of vital organs such as the lungs, abdomen, and heart. Primarily linked to asbestos exposure, this disease remains incurable, with symptom onset often taking 20 to 50 years. The prognosis is generally poor, influenced by tumor location, cancer stage, and cell type. Patient factors like age and general health also play roles in survival chances. Detecting symptoms early is crucial. Common signs vary by affected area: lung involvement causes chest pain, breathlessness, and weight loss; abdominal cases lead to pain, swelling, and lumps; heart-related mesothelioma causes chest pain and breathing issues. Testicular mesothelioma may cause testicular swelling. Recognized treatment centers across the country provide specialized care, including University of Michigan, Markey Cancer Center, and Dana Farber, among others.