Mesothelioma Background
Technically, misothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a membrane surrounding most of our internal organs including the abdominal cavity, lungs, and heart. There are two layers of the misothelioma that allow the organs the ability to shift while limiting friction. Between the two layers is a fluid that acts as lubrication to facilitate movement.

What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma American Heritage defines it as "a usually malignant tumor of mesothelial tissue, especially that of the pleura or peritoneum". The formation of these cancerous cells can usually be traced back to people exposed to asbestos particles that are inhaled. 20 to 30 percent of cases cannot be definitively linked to asbestos exposure however heavier exposure does significantly increase risk.

According to the National Cancer Institute smoking does not increase the risk of mesothelioma though it does increase the risk of other cancers.

Pleura, Peritoneum, and other Mesothelium
Mesothelioma usually begins in the pluera (mesothelium surrounding the lungs) or the peritoneum (mesothelium surrounding most of the abdominal cavity). Mesotheliouma can then spread to other parts of the body. The other mesothelium sacks include pericardium (surrounding the heart), tunica vaginalis testi (surrounding the male internal reproductive organs), and the tunica serosa uteri (covering the female reproductive organs).

Mesothelioma Pages

• Diagnosis Concerns and Symptoms Page
• U.S. Asbestos Related Illness/Risk Today
• Asbestos Related Items
• Legal Recourses, Attorneys, and Mesothelioma