Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the abdomen; it is the second most common of mesotheliomas, representing about one fifth of all the disease. Usually, peritoneal mesothelioma is characterized by a slow malignant development of a group of ‘mesothelial’ cells on the peritoneum, a serous membrane formed by a single layer of epithelial cells lining the abdomen and viscera. The detection of peritoneal mesothelioma is done by X-ray and CT scan, and confirmed by biopsy.  

The diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma is always done tardily, which makes it difficult to cure the disease. However, there are now treatments to improve or extend the lives of patients. The prognosis of peritoneal mesothelioma depends on various factors: age, size and stage of tumor, its extent, and whether or not the tumor responds to treatment. As the case for any disease, earlier the cancer is diagnosed, higher is the chance to survive. 

The only cause of peritoneal mesothelioma is previous exposure to asbestos. Although in the body, the cancer can manifest years after exposure to asbestos. Initially, the cancer develops asymptomatically in the peritoneum. It affects the lining that protects the contents of the abdomen. Like pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma can be benign or malignant.   

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a symptomatic incurable disease. It is usually accompanied by abdominal pain, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal swelling. Depending on the severity or extension of the tumor, other problems such as respiratory problems and severe pain may be experienced. A Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma can also cause accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity (ascites).