Peritoneal Mesothelioma: An Asbestos-Related Cancer of the Abdomen
Asbestos-related cancer, or mesothelioma, is caused by exposure to asbestos — a naturally occurring fibrous mineral once widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century. Although its toxicity was confirmed in the 1970s, the effects of exposure can take decades to appear.
While most people associate mesothelioma with the lungs, pleural mesothelioma is just one form of this disease. It is the most common, but other types exist, including peritoneal mesothelioma, which develops in the abdomen.
What Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma and How Is It Caused?
Peritoneal mesothelioma begins in the peritoneum, the protective lining that surrounds the stomach and other abdominal organs. It accounts for about 10% to 25% of all mesothelioma cases.
Common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Bloating and loss of appetite
- Changes in bowel habits
- Nausea or unexplained weight loss
Like other forms of mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is the leading cause. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can migrate through the body and lodge in the peritoneal lining. Over time, the irritation and inflammation they cause lead to cellular mutations, which can become cancerous. Because this process happens slowly, symptoms may not appear for 20 years or more after exposure.
How Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treated?
Treatment typically combines surgery and chemotherapy, often delivered directly into the abdomen. Common approaches include:
Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS):
A complex operation to remove all visible tumors and, in some cases, non-essential organs affected by cancer.
Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC):
Following surgery, doctors circulate a heated chemotherapy solution throughout the abdomen for about two hours to destroy microscopic cancer cells. The heat increases drug absorption and cancer-fighting effectiveness.
Paracentesis:
A procedure that removes excess fluid from the abdominal cavity to reduce discomfort and pain.
Prognosis and Ongoing Research
Although all forms of mesothelioma are serious, patients with peritoneal mesothelioma generally have a more favorable prognosis than those with pleural mesothelioma. Many live five years or longer after diagnosis, thanks to advances in CRS and HIPEC treatments.
Ongoing research continues to focus on new drug combinations and immunotherapy options to further extend survival and improve quality of life.
Madeksho Law Can Help Mesothelioma Victims
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, take action as soon as possible. The attorneys at Madeksho Law have been helping asbestos-exposure victims for more than 50 years.
We’ve recovered over $400 million for clients and families affected by asbestos-related disease — fighting for justice since 1972.
📞 Call 888-910-MESO (6376) or use our contact form to schedule your free consultation today.
