Pericardial Mesothelioma: The Rare, Often Misdiagnosed Heart Cancer Linked to Asbestos Exposure
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer most often associated with the lungs, but in extremely rare cases, it can develop around the heart. This form—known as pericardial mesothelioma—affects the thin, protective sacs that surround the heart and can easily be mistaken for other cardiac conditions.
Only about 350 cases have ever been reported worldwide, making pericardial mesothelioma one of the rarest cancers known. Like other types of mesothelioma, it’s caused by exposure to asbestos, a once-common building material used in homes, military facilities, and industrial sites throughout much of the 20th century. Asbestos fibers can remain in the body for decades before causing inflammation, scarring, and, eventually, cancer.
Because the symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma often mirror those of more common heart diseases, diagnosis is challenging and frequently delayed—limiting treatment options and worsening outcomes.
What Is Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the pericardium, the two-layered membrane that surrounds and protects the heart. Cancer can occur in one or both layers of this lining, interfering with how the heart expands and contracts.
While the condition is extremely rare, it is also highly aggressive. Many patients are not diagnosed until after symptoms have progressed or after surgery for other heart problems reveals cancerous tissue.
Common Symptoms
Because it mimics other heart diseases, pericardial mesothelioma is often overlooked until it’s advanced.
Symptoms may include:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath (especially when lying down)
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Fever and night sweats
- Heart palpitations or new heart murmurs
- Unexplained weight loss
If you or someone you love has a history of asbestos exposure—especially through military service, construction, shipyards, or factory work—and develops unexplained heart symptoms, it’s important to speak with a doctor familiar with asbestos-related conditions.
Treatment Options
Treatment for pericardial mesothelioma is complex due to its location near the heart. Options may include:
- Surgery: Removal of visible cancerous tissue or part of the pericardium may help relieve symptoms, but complete removal is difficult because microscopic cancer cells are often left behind.
- Radiation therapy: Can help shrink tumors and ease pain or breathing issues.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs such as cisplatin are often used in combination with surgery or radiation to target remaining cancer cells.
Because pericardial mesothelioma is so rare, researchers are still exploring new therapies, including targeted drugs and immunotherapy, to improve survival and quality of life.
Unfortunately, as with other forms of mesothelioma, the prognosis remains poor—largely because it is often discovered late in its progression.
How Madeksho Law Can Help
A diagnosis of pericardial mesothelioma can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. Victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
At Madeksho Law, we’ve dedicated more than 50 years to helping families affected by asbestos exposure. Our experienced team understands the physical and emotional toll of this disease and has recovered over $400 million for clients nationwide.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, don’t wait to explore your legal and medical options.
📞 Call 888-910-MESO (6376) or contact us online for a free consultation. We’re here to help you find answers, hold those responsible accountable, and fight for your family’s future.
