Of the three types of mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the mesothelium, malignant pleural mesothelioma is the most widespread. The cancer is rare and only fewer than 3000 mesothelioma cases are reported yearly in the United States. The pleural type, which we are discussing here, accounts for three-fourths of it. The cancer affects the pleura, a protective sac that guards the lungs. This sac, which shores up the lungs and shields the lung cavity, is built of two layers. The inner lining or the visceral lining sheaths the lungs while the outer one guards the chest cavity and diaphragm. Pleural mesothelioma occurs initially in any one of these layers and may spread into the other one after a period of time. This cancerous growth is caused by asbestos fibers ensnared in the open spaces between mesothelium cells.

After settling down in convenient places, the particles trigger chemical reactions causing the cells to divide in a lawless manner. The activity thickens the pleural layers and mesothelical cells and a fluid build-up called pleural effusion occurs. The extra fluid presses the lungs thereby preventing easy breathing. The cancer is heralded by persistent dry cough, emission of blood through coughing, problems with swallowing, shortness of breath, weight loss of inexplicable nature, fatigue, lump formation around the chest etc.

Pleural mesothelioma diagnosis is tricky since the symptoms at hand may have been caused by other reasons like influenza and pneumonia too. After physical and medical history examination of the patient, imaging tests like x-rays, MRI, CT scan, biopsy etc confirm the existence of cancer and determine its type and class.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma treatment generally centers on the traditional cures like surgery, chemotherapy (using chemicals to fight the remnants of cancer) and radiation. In severe cases, these may be combined for achieving better effects. However, the prognosis of this cancer is not always satisfactory since many cases get detected only at advanced infection stages. But for those diagnosed at the early stages of cancer, there is definitive reason to cheer.

As the cancer is caused by asbestos exposure, those suffering from malignant pleural mesothelioma are entitled to legal support and can claim compensation from those directly responsible for causing the infection. The amount, which may run to millions in some cases, can act as a financial cushion for medical expenses arising from the disease.

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