Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that attacks the lining of the abdomen. The cancer envelops many of the organs in the abdomen by a thin membrane of mesothelial cells, known as the peritoneum. Its only known cause in the U.S. is previous exposure to asbestos, and in most of the cases, the disease appears after many years of the exposure to the asbestos. Peritoneal mesotheliomas account for about one-fifth of all mesotheliomas. It affects the lining that protects the contents of the abdomen and which also provides a lubricating fluid to enable the organs to move and work properly.

This type asbestos-related cancer is the second most common after Pleural Mesothelioma. Just like pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma can be either benign or malignant. There are a number of symptoms for this disease. These symptoms typically include abdominal pains, weakness, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal swelling. Depending on the location of the tumor, additional problems such as breathing problems and severe pains can be experienced. Fluid often accumulates in the peritoneal space, a condition known as ascites. Over time the wasting symptoms can become more and more severe.

X-rays and CT scans are, typically, the first step towards detecting peritoneal mesothelioma. Though the actual diagnosis is achieved by obtaining a piece of tissue from the victims body. Presently, there are treatments, but no for sure known cure, for peritoneal mesothelioma. The prognosis depends on various factors, including the size and stage of the tumor, its extent, the cell type, and whether or not the tumor responds to treatment. However, the options for relief and treatment of people with peritoneal mesothelioma have opened up, especially for those whose cancer is diagnosed early and treated vigorously.

Specific types of treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma include:

1-Surgery

2-Radiation Therapy

3-Chemotherapy

Peritoneal Mesothelioma causes many deaths each year. Although it is not the most common form of this cancer, many new cases come to light each year. However, with continued research and clinical trials, it may be possible to one day make this a curable disease and save the life of people who have fallen victim to this dreadful disease.