Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that afflicts approximately 200 individuals in New York each year. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos, a hazardous mineral found in specific workplaces, residences, and environments. Among the various forms of mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma ranks as the second most common, comprising approximately 15-20% of all mesothelioma cases.

This cancer is notorious for its high mortality rate, with fewer than 18% of patients surviving beyond five years post-diagnosis. One of the key factors contributing to this grim statistic is the delayed onset of symptoms, which can manifest 20-40 years after asbestos exposure.

What is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma arises when cancer develops in the lining of the abdominal wall due to prior asbestos exposure. Although less prevalent than pleural mesothelioma, this form of the disease affects nearly 300 Americans annually.

The abdomen houses vital organs such as the intestines, liver, gallbladder, and stomach, all of which are susceptible to cancer as the disease progresses to advanced stages.

The Root Cause of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure remains the sole known cause of mesothelioma in all its forms. This toxic substance, with its fibrous texture, produces fine particle dust that easily becomes airborne. Individuals who handle asbestos-containing products or live near industrial sites where such products are manufactured risk having asbestos settle in their homes, cling to their clothing, and even adhere to their hair.

High-Risk Groups

The primary demographic at risk for peritoneal mesothelioma includes blue-collar workers, military veterans, and civilians employed in naval shipyards. This encompasses:

1. Navy veterans who served on ships or worked in shipyards before 1980.
2. Electricians, plumbers, roofers, carpenters, drywall hangers, renovators, concrete laborers, bricklayers, general laborers, and landscapers.
3. Secondary exposure poses a significant risk to family members of these primary groups. Loved ones inadvertently exposed to asbestos fibers brought home on clothing were common during the 1960s and 1970s.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma presents with distinctive symptoms, including:

• Abdominal distention and pain
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
• Gastrointestinal issues like constipation or diarrhea
• Night sweats, chills, and fever

These symptoms, resembling those of other diseases and disorders, can complicate the early identification and timely treatment of cancer.

Diagnosing Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Due to the prolonged latency period of up to 20 years or more, peritoneal mesothelioma can evade diagnosis for an extended period. Patients who suspect asbestos exposure should seek multiple medical opinions and undergo various tests.

Medical professionals typically employ two primary types of tests: scans (CT scan or X-ray) and biopsies. Scans can reveal tumor growth on the abdominal wall or major organs, but results may not always be conclusive. Biopsies, involving the extraction of tissue or fluid from the abdominal lining for laboratory testing, provide a definitive diagnosis.

Survival Chances

Peritoneal mesothelioma is categorized into four stages, with the stage at diagnosis significantly impacting treatment options and prognosis.

• Stage 1 offers the best potential outcome, often qualifying for surgery. Patients may survive two to five years post-diagnosis, with only 18% living beyond five years.
• Stage 2 indicates the spread of cancer but still allows for surgery, often accompanied by chemotherapy. Survival averages around 18 months with successful treatment.
• Stage 3, where most symptoms manifest, limits surgical options. A combination of chemotherapy and radiation may be employed, extending life expectancy to about 16 months.
• Stage 4 represents the advanced stage, with cancer metastasizing. While radiation may be an option for some patients, most receive palliative care to manage pain and enhance the quality of life. Survival beyond 12 months is uncommon.

Treatment Options

Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma primarily includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and ongoing clinical trials. Surgery is most effective in the earliest stages (Stage 1 and 2), potentially removing tumors or even organs. Chemotherapy, often combined with surgery, aims to slow tumor growth. Radiation employs targeted laser beams to destroy cancer cells but may affect healthy cells as well. Palliative care is provided for Stage 4 patients to alleviate suffering and enhance their quality of life.