What is mesothelioma cancer? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Mesothelioma is a malignant cancer that first appears in the thin layer of tissue which covers the internal organs. It is a very aggressive form of cancer for which there is no cure and is always fatal, killing thousands of people each year. There are four types of mesothelioma:

  • Pericardial: Affects the tissue surrounding the heart. Symptoms include chest pain and difficulty breathing.
  • Peritoneal: Develops in abdominal tissue. Symptoms include pain, weight loss, excessive swelling, and tissue lumps in the abdominal area
  • Pleural: Affects tissue that surrounds the lungs. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, painful coughing, excessive weight loss, and tissue lumps on the chest.
  • Tunica Vaginalis: Develops in the testicular tissue. Symptoms include a swollen area or mass on the testicle.