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Mesothelioma Resources

The peritoneum is the layer of mesothelium which makes up the abdominal lining. The walls of the peritoneum together create the outside of the abdominal cavity and are important in allowing movement of organs within the body. The peritoneum also holds the organs of the abdomen in place and facilitates the transfer of matter from the abdominal cavity to other parts of the body. Like the other types of mesothelium, the pericardial and the pleural, the peritoneum is susceptible to mesothelioma.

Cases of mesothelioma in the peritoneum are relatively rare, accounting for about 30% of all cases of mesothelioma and have the distinction of having a high rate of natural causes. Although about 90% of mesothelioma cases can be directly linked to asbestos exposure, peritoneal mesothelioma has a high rate of natural causes, often presenting itself in younger women who have no verifiable asbestos exposure. However, asbestos related mesothelioma can present itself in the peritoneum, either by spreading from pleural mesothelioma or by originating in peritoneal mesothelium.

Peritoneal mesothelioma can prove itself quite treatable if found in its most early stages, however, because of its proximity to several major organs, it can spread to abdominal organs and prove untreatable. Like other forms of mesothelioma, a combination of surgical removal, chemotherapy and radiation is the only effective treatment. Peritoneal mesothelioma is usually diagnosed after patients come to their doctors with pain in the abdomen, bulging abdomen, and difficult digestion. The tumor mass can often be felt during palpation, and is diagnosed after imaging such as an X-ray, CAT scan, or an MRI.