Mesothelioma history and symptoms

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sujit Routray, M.D. [2]

Obtaining the history is the most important aspect of making a diagnosis when evaluating a patient for mesothelioma. Detailed history of the presenting symptom (onset, duration, and progression), other associated symptoms, and a thorough family and occupational history review. Other specific areas of focus include a history of any exposure to asbestos or radiation.Presenting symptoms of mesothelioma appear after 20 to 50 years of exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain nonpleuritic in nature, shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, palpitation, hemoptysis, fever and weight loss.

• Obtaining the history is the most important aspect of making a diagnosis when evaluating a patient for mesothelioma.^[1][2]
• A detailed history of the presenting symptom (onset, duration, and progression), other associated symptoms, and a thorough family and occupational history review. Other specific areas of focus include a history of any exposure to asbestos or radiation.

• Presenting symptoms of mesothelioma appear after 20 to 50 years of exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain nonpleuritic in nature, shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, palpitation, hemoptysis, fever and weight loss. As the tumor grows in size, it may present with one or more symptoms. Symptoms of mesothelioma depend on the location of the tumor.^[3][4]

Mesothelioma that affects the pleura can cause:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Blood in sputum
• Fever
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Difficulty in swallowing

Mesothelioma that affects the peritoneum can cause:

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal distension
• Lump in the abdomen
• Fatigue
• Weight loss

Mesothelioma that affects the pericardium can cause:

• Palpitation
• Cough
• Hemoptysis
• Dizziness
• Swelling in legs
• Fatigue
• Night sweats

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