Receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating. Endless worries and questions may be flooding your mind. You likely are searching for comfort and answers, hoping you will be able to find them. Rest assured, you have come to the right place. Below are 6 common mesothelioma questions for your doctor.

What is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of the abdominal organs and the abdominal cavity. It makes up 10 to 20% of mesothelioma cases. 

What Type of Mesothelioma Do I Have?

Your doctor uses imaging studies and other diagnostic tests to determine what kind of mesothelioma you have. There are four types of malignant mesothelioma:

• Pleural mesothelioma affects the thoracic cavity and lining of the lungs. It makes up 80 to 90% of cases.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the abdominal cavity and lining of the abdominal organs. It makes up 10 to 20% of cases. 
• Pericardial mesothelioma affects the heart cavity and the lining of the heart. It makes up less than 1% of cases. 
• Testicular mesothelioma affects the lining of the testicles. It makes up less than 1% of cases. 

What Causes Mesothelioma?

Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma. It is estimated to be responsible for up to 70 to 90% of pleural mesotheliomas.¹ Other causes of mesothelioma include 

• Exposure to other types of mineral fibers, such as erionite, fluoro-edenite, and possibly balangeroite
• Radiation therapy
• Genetic predisposition
• Unknown cause

What Options Do I Have for Treatment?

Treatment differs for each individual, depending upon the stage of their disease and their overall health status. It usually involves some combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.² Input from an oncology team composed of medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists can be invaluable in guiding your treatment decisions.

Will I Feel Sicker During Treatment Than I Do Now?

All treatments for mesothelioma have side effects, and some even have potentially life-threatening complications. However, palliative care, a therapy that improves an individual’s quality of life and relieves pain and other distressing symptoms, can accompany any of the standard treatment options for mesothelioma.

Should I Hire a Lawyer?

If you were exposed to asbestos-based particles because of your occupation, you could be entitled to compensation. This compensation can help you pay for treatment and other expenses. The legal basis behind the case is that some corporations knew that asbestos was harmful but exposed their workers to it anyway. Hiring a lawyer can help you win your case. Bringing the responsible entity to justice could also help you feel empowered and comforted, knowing that you are advocating for yourself and others.