Mesothelioma

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that is typically caused by exposure to asbestos fibres. It develops in the lining of specific organs, like your lungs, abdomen and heart. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was previously used in building materials like insulation and fire-proofing until it was banned in 1999 due to the harm it can cause.

Although the UK has banned the use of asbestos, cases of mesothelioma are still increasing because it takes time for the disease to take effect. Early detection is key and gives treatment the best chance of working, so always seek medical advice if you think an industry has exposed you to asbestos.

Unfortunately, doctors diagnose most cases of mesothelioma when it’s most advanced, which can mean a poor prognosis (the outcome of your condition). However, our multidisciplinary team works together to provide personalised care that supports your needs and enhances your quality of life – no matter your prognosis.

Mesothelioma symptoms

Mesothelioma doesn’t usually cause immediate symptoms. It can develop decades after exposure to asbestos fibres. For this reason, most cases in the UK are diagnosed in people over 75. Symptoms can develop as the disease progresses, such as:

• Shortness of breath – caused by pleural effusion (build-up of fluid in your lungs)
• Chest pain – that feels sharp or persistent
• Chronic cough – a cough that doesn’t get better over time
• Fatigue – feeling tired and lacking energy
• Unexplained weight loss – without changing your diet or exercise
• Abdominal pain or swelling – from fluid build-up or tumour growth
• Problems swallowing (dysphagia) – if mesothelioma advances to severe stages
• Fever or night sweats – a common symptom of many cancers
• Lumps or swelling – near your chest wall or stomach because of tumour growth

Mesothelioma diagnosis

Mesothelioma can be challenging to diagnose because it’s a complex condition. However, our expert team understands mesothelioma and what to look for in your symptoms.

Initial consultation and assessment

First, we’ll look at your medical history and ask about any asbestos exposure you may know. Next, we’ll recommend imaging tests to search for abnormalities in your chest or elsewhere in your body.

Imaging tests

Imaging tests we perform can include:

• A chest X-ray
• Computerised tomography (CT) scan

These tests both provide images of the body’s insides and identify abnormalities or tumours. An imaging test alone cannot confirm mesothelioma. We must take a biopsy (tissue sample) to confirm whether or not you have mesothelioma.

Biopsy techniques

Tumours that grow in the lungs’ lining are challenging to collect. However, we can take a proper biopsy of the abnormality and confirm or rule out mesothelioma using a CT-guided biopsy.

We can also perform a video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) procedure where we directly access and see the tumours or pleural effusion through minimally invasive surgery.

Multidisciplinary diagnosis and support

Our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, surgeons, oncologists and respiratory specialists work together to craft a bespoke treatment plan based on your comprehensive diagnosis.

Specialist support for you and your family

We understand the difficulties mesothelioma can bring. Our clinical nurse specialists (CNS) provide you and your family with the correct support to understand complex medical information, coordinate your care and suggest legal and financial resources for potential compensation for your asbestos exposure.