Causes, incidence, and risk factors: Nonmalignant mesothelioma is usually a localized tumor that affects men more frequently than women. The tumor may grow to a large size and compress the lung, causing the symptoms of shortness of breath.
Symptoms: Approximately half of mesothelioma patients are asymptomatic (show no symptoms of disease).
Signs and tests: During a physical examination, the health care provider may notice a clubbed appearance of the fingers.
Tests that may show mesothelioma include the following:
Treatment: Surgery is usually necessary for a solitary tumor.
Expectations (prognosis): The outcome is expected to be good with prompt treatment.
Complications: Pleural effusion (fluid escaping into the membranes around the lungs) is a complication.
Calling your health care provider: Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice symptoms of mesothelioma.
