Pericardial mesothelioma develops aggressively in the pericardium, the thin sac surrounding the heart, and accounts for less than 1% of all mesothelioma cases. Exposure to asbestos, a group of minerals once widely used for their heat-resistant properties, primarily causes this rare cancer.
Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma
Symptoms often mimic other heart conditions, complicating diagnosis. Common symptoms include persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing during physical activity, unusual fatigue, irregular or rapid heartbeats, and a persistent cough that may include blood. These symptoms usually appear in the later stages, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Affected industries
Several industries have historically used asbestos, increasing workers’ risk of developing pericardial mesothelioma. These include construction (insulation, roofing, flooring), shipbuilding, manufacturing (textiles, automotive parts, machinery), mining, and the military, especially Navy veterans. Despite reduced asbestos use, older buildings and products still pose risks, especially for those renovating or demolishing older structures.
Fighting the illness
Awareness of at-risk industries and symptoms can aid early detection and treatment, potentially improving outcomes. Individuals with concerns should consult a medical professional.
Treatment for pericardial mesothelioma typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. Surgical options include pericardiectomy, which removes part or all of the pericardium, and tumor removal to alleviate symptoms. Chemotherapy aims to shrink tumors and slow their growth, while radiation therapy can target and kill cancer cells. The choice of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and symptom severity.
Due to its rarity and aggressive nature, this type of mesothelioma has relatively low survival rates. The one-year survival rate is approximately 26%. The five-year survival rate is around 9%. Most patients live between 3 to 10 months after diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, but the prognosis remains challenging due to the disease’s advanced stage at diagnosis and limited treatment options.
Injured victims may seek legal help
If diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma due to exposure at work, victims and their families can seek legal guidance from a lawyer specializing in mesothelioma cases. The legal system remains vital in addressing the widespread effects of asbestos exposure, holding accountable those who fail to exercise caution and whose negligence leads to serious harm to others.