Mesothelioma Flashcards
What is a mesothelioma?
Lung malignancy affecting the mesothelial cells of the pleural cavity
Where is affected by a mesothelioma?
The pleural cavity
Where else could possibly be affected by a mesothelioma?
Other mesothelial layers of the abdominal cavity
What are mesotheliomas strongly linked to?
Asbestos inhalation.
How can mesotheliomas present?
Dyspnoea
Weight loss
Chest wall pain
Clubbing
(Painless pleural effusion)
Which lung is more commonly affected by a mesothelioma?
Right lung more than left lung
How is a mesothelioma usually diagnosed?
Chest x-ray
What might you find on a chest x-ray of someone with a mesothelioma?
Pleural effusion or pleural thickening
What might you find on a chest x-ray of someone with a mesothelioma?
Pleural effusion or pleural thickening
What might you do if there is a pleural effusion present?
Send fluid for MC&S, biochemistry and cytology
What might you do after a chest x-ray in someone with a suspected mesothelioma?
Pleural CT
How long can the latent period be between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma?
30-40 years
What is the management of a mesothelioma?
- Symptomatic
- Industrial compensation
- Chemotherapy, Surgery if operable
What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?
Poor- median survival 12 months
What is the use of chemotherapy in someone with mesothelioma?
Can improve survival but mostly palliative
