The exact prevalence is unknown, but mesothelioma is estimated to represent less than 1% of all cancers. The incidence of mesothelioma is increasing and peak incidence is expected to occur over the next 10-20 years.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma. Chest pain and shortness of breath are common. Breathlessness secondary to pleural effusion without chest pain is reported in about 30% of cases. Parietal thoracic mass, weight loss, sweating, abdominal pain and ascites (due to impairment of the peritoneum) are less frequent events.
In over 90% of cases, the cause of mesothelioma is attributed to occupational exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma can also be due to exposure Environmental 'unprofessional, asbestos. Spontaneous or idiopathic occurrence of mesothelioma in the absence of asbestos exposure, is also possible and affects about one in a million.
Diagnosis is looking for a history of exposure to asbestos, and on radiological and pathological data. The radiological data (scanner) are in favor of following malignant pleural disease:
1) a circumferential pleural thickening,
2) nodular pleural thickening,
3) pleural thickening greater than 1 cm,
4) mediastinal pleural involvement.
1) a circumferential pleural thickening,
2) nodular pleural thickening,
3) pleural thickening greater than 1 cm,
4) mediastinal pleural involvement.
The distinction with benign pleural disease can be difficult.
The management should involve a multidisciplinary team and includes radiotherapy, chemotherapy, surgery and palliative care at end of life. Compensation should also be considered.
Life expectancy is low, with a median survival of approximately one year from mesothelioma diagnosis.
