Pericardial Mesothelioma

The rarest form of asbestos-related cancer, pericardial Mesothelioma attacks the lining that surrounds the heart, known as the pericardium.  Though this type of Mesothelioma accounts for the lowest number of asbestos-related cancers diagnosed each year – about 5% to 15% - it is often associated with long-term exposure to asbestos.  Those who worked in asbestos-laden buildings or with asbestos-containing products throughout the majority of their working years are often the victims of this dreaded disease.

Much like the other varieties of Mesothelioma, this type often does not manifest itself for decades.  Unfortunately, this means that by the time it is diagnosed, many treatment options are not viable and a patient’s lifespan at point of diagnosis usually ranges from about 6 weeks to 12 months.  Figures like these indicate the importance of regular pulmonary check-ups for those that have suffered long-term asbestos exposure.

Pericardial Mesothelioma can be one of the most painful forms of the disease.  Symptoms most often include:

• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Persistent coughing

As with other forms of the disease, the symptoms of pericardial Mesothelioma can be mistaken for other illnesses or disorders.  Patients who know or suspect they’ve been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing such symptoms should be sure to inform their doctor as to their prolonged exposure. 

Testing used to positively diagnose this form of asbestos-related cancer usually begins with x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, used to detect the presence of any unusual growths in the tissue surrounding the heart. If something is spotted, a biopsy will most likely be performed. 

Because pericardial Mesothelioma is almost always detected at a late stage, treatment options are palliative rather than curative.  Any procedures or treatments suggested by doctors are usually to help reduce pain or relieve the symptoms of the disease.  For many, improving the patient’s quality of life for his/her remaining weeks or months is of the utmost importance at this stage.  The age and general health of the patient as well as the patient’s individual wishes should, of course, be taken into consideration.

Palliative treatment options may include:

• Radiation therapy – used to reduce fluid collection
• Chemotherapy - used to attempt to reduce cancer cells.  This aggressive form of therapy should be carefully considered as it will most likely detract from the patient’s quality of life but offer no cure.
• Surgery – used on rare occasions in Stage IV patients to reduce fluid collection.  If the disease were to be detected early enough and before it has metastasized, surgery may be performed to remove the affected portion of the pericardium.
• Clinical trials

For most, unfortunately, pericardial Mesothelioma is a death sentence.  If you or someone you’re close to has been diagnosed with this form of asbestos-related cancer, options will be limited.  Be sure that your questions and concerns are answered by sending for our free Mesothelioma Resource Kit, which will help explain in more detail the course of the disease, its diagnosis and treatments, and any legal rights belonging to a patient diagnosed with pericardial Mesothelioma.