What is Mesothelioma?
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Mesothelioma Overview
Mesothelioma is a tumor of the tissue that lines your lungs, called the pleura. Mesothelioma usually starts in the pleura of the lungs, but it can also start in the abdomen or other organs. Often, mesothelioma presents with fluid surrounding the lungs. Your care team will work with you to determine the best mesothelioma treatment options.
Risk Factors
- Asbestos exposure
Symptoms
- Trouble breathing
- Cough
- Pain under the rib cage
- Pain, swelling, or lumps in the abdomen
- Constipation
- Weight loss for no known reason
Diagnosis and Screenings
At times, it is hard to tell the difference between malignant mesothelioma and metastases to the pleura. Imaging tests and biopsies are used to make the diagnosis.
Mesothelioma Treatments
Traditional mesothelioma treatment may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. At UCLA, we have established a working group to manage recurrent mesothelioma with minimal invasive image guided cryoablation. Using this technique, up to 90% of local recurrent tumors can be controlled with limited complications.
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