Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Symptoms, Diagnosing, Treatment
Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 2010/10/09 - Updated: 2025/03/22
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Mesothelioma - Publications List
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This article provides a clear and detailed overview of peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare and deadly cancer tied to asbestos exposure that affects the abdominal lining. It's particularly useful because it breaks down complex medical info - like symptoms, diagnosis challenges, and the disease's link to asbestos - into something anyone can grasp. With practical details on how this cancer shows up (think abdominal pain or swelling) and why it's tough to spot early, it's a handy resource for people wanting to understand this illness, including seniors or those with disabilities who might face higher health risks or need straightforward info to navigate their concerns. The focus on real-world risks, like workplace exposure, makes it relatable and valuable for anyone curious about asbestos-related health issues or supporting someone affected - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
The processes leading to the development of peritoneal mesothelioma remain unresolved. However, it has been proposed that asbestos fibers from the lung are transported to the abdomen and associated organs via the lymphatic system. Additionally, asbestos fibers may be deposited in the gut after ingesting sputum contaminated with asbestos fibers. Approximately one-fifth to one-third of all mesotheliomas are peritoneal.
The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has included Peritoneal Mesothelioma as a Compassionate Allowance to expedite a disability claim.
Main Content
Peritoneal mesothelioma has two clinical types, which can be differentiated with the help of CT findings, the "dry" type and the "wet." It is classified as "dry" when there are multiple tiny masses or one dominant localized mass and generally little or no ascites. The "wet" type has widespread small nodules, no dominant mass, and a presence of ascites. If the fluid is found, the process of eliminating it is through paracentesis; however, the analysis of this fluid has limited diagnostic significance. Normally, a definitive diagnosis may be obtained through tissue biopsy.
Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma even years later. There is evidence that family members and others living with people exposed to asbestos have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may result from exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers.
Symptoms
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and cachexia, abdominal swelling, and pain due to ascites (a buildup of fluid in the abdominal cavity). Other symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever.
Diagnosing
Diagnosing Peritoneal Mesothelioma is often difficult; because the symptoms are often associated with other conditions. Diagnostic testing includes a review of the patient's medical history and a complete physical examination, including x-rays of the abdomen. Diagnostic imaging by CT scan and MRI suggests a diagnosis, but a definitive diagnosis is via tissue sampling by CT-directed biopsy or peritoneoscopy.
Treatment
Standard treatment for all but localized mesothelioma is generally not curative. However, radical resection is associated with a better prognosis and should be attempted when possible. Chemotherapy can be administered systemically or directly into the abdomen and is helpful as palliative treatment.
Delayed diagnosis of mesothelioma worsens its prognosis. In general, the prognosis of mesothelioma is poor, and most studies report a median survival of less than a year.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: Looking at peritoneal mesothelioma through this lens really drives home how sneaky and brutal this cancer can be - hiding for decades after asbestos exposure only to hit hard when it finally shows up. It's a stark reminder of how past industrial choices still haunt us, especially for workers or families caught off guard by a diagnosis that's often too late to beat. Articles like this don't just inform - they push us to think harder about prevention, push for tougher regulations, and keep asking questions about what else might be lurking in our environment, waiting to strike - Disabled World (DW).
Author Credentials: Ian is an Australian-born writer, editor, and advocate who currently resides in Montreal, Canada. He 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.