Pediatric Mesothelioma: Insights on a Rare Childhood Cancer
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2009/03/24 - Updated: 2025/03/22
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Mesothelioma - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This article provides valuable information on mesothelioma in children and young adults, a rare but serious form of cancer. It explores the incidence, types, and potential causes of pediatric mesothelioma, offering insights into its diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis. The content is particularly helpful for families affected by this condition, healthcare professionals, and researchers interested in rare pediatric cancers. By shedding light on this uncommon disease, the article contributes to raising awareness and understanding of mesothelioma in younger populations - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Mesothelioma, if malignant, is an aggressive form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. The asbestos that enters the body lodges itself within the lining the lungs, abdomen, heart, as well as other organs and eventually the problem takes an adverse shape and tumors form.
Main Content
The latency period of mesothelioma can be many years, so often diagnosing children with mesothelioma can be difficult because they have not lived that long. However there have been rare cases and studies that detected mesothelioma in children. Because the prognosis is poor, doctors need to carefully diagnose mesothelioma in their youngest patients.
My Parent/Loved One Has It-Can I Be Affected?
It is important to understand that mesothelioma is not inherited through genes, therefore just because your Mother or Father has it, does not mean it automatically is passed on. Mesothelioma is also not contagious. There have been cases where children have been diagnosed with mesothelioma but it is through contact with an asbestos exposure. Asbestos exposure can happen many different ways.
Passive Victim
In some cases parents who worked in manufacturing or construction companies have exposed children to asbestos through clothing. When at work the asbestos would get trapped in either the clothing or other accessories and when brought home the transmission occurred through the air. That asbestos contaminated air could then be breathed in by a child. Asbestos makes its way into tiny airways of the lungs and then cannot be breathed or coughed out.
Direct Contact
In other cases homes built between the 1920s and 1980s may have attics that contain asbestos insulation known as vermiculite. Older roofs may contain asbestos that would then be breathed in. If there is ever a question whether or not your house contains asbestos it is always best to hire a licensed professional asbestos inspector.
Studies
There are ongoing studies and most doctors agree that more research must be done before a conclusion is met. Dr. Moran and some of his colleagues recently published a study in the journal, Histopathology, which they analyzed eight cases of children suffering from mesothelioma. All of the children had peritoneal mesothelioma cancer, which is cancer of the abdominal cavity lining. Adults, however, usually suffer from pleural mesothelioma cancer, which is in the lining of the lungs. The children diagnosed with mesothelioma often complained of pain from bloating, due to fluid build-up of their abdomen. This shows that it is possible for children to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, although most victims are adults due to the longevity it usually takes for the disease to manifest.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms are generally non specific and resemble common sicknesses such as viral pneumonia, heart disease, flu, and bronchitis. These symptoms include: shortness of breath (dyspnea) or difficulty breathing, coughing and/or coughing up of blood, chest or abdomen pain caused by excessive fluid, weight loss, husky voice, difficulty swallowing, fever, anemia, bowel obstruction, inability to sleep, and loss of appetite.
Since these are general symptoms of common viral diseases, it is important to report any asbestos history you have to a doctor so the correct diagnosis can be made, especially in children as they may be harder to diagnosis.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: While mesothelioma in children remains extremely rare, this article underscores the importance of continued research and vigilance in pediatric oncology. As our understanding of genetic factors and environmental influences grows, we may uncover new ways to prevent, detect, and treat this challenging disease in its earliest stages. The medical community must remain committed to exploring innovative therapies and supportive care strategies to improve outcomes for young patients facing this diagnosis - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.