Common Mesothelioma Terminology

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is often associated with exposure to asbestos fibers in the air. The mere name Mesothelioma should be an indication that there are many phrases in this area that go beyond basic English. In this article, we will shed some light on these terms.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare, but vicious form of cancer. It is found in the lining that runs through the chest and abdomen area of the body. This lining creates a lubricated surface between organs such as the heart and lungs. Mesothelioma is a cancerous growth within the lining.

Biomarker

Blood tests are often used as a diagnostic tool when evaluating whether a patient has cancer. If certain substances appear, called biomarkers, then the presence of cancer can be inferred. Any doctor giving you a blood test looking for biomarkers of Mesothelioma should be severely questioned. Unlike other cancers, Mesothelioma has no biomarkers.

Thoracoscopy

This term is a mouthful, but refers to a very important diagnostic test when Mesothelioma is being considered. The test involves the insertion of a thin lighted tube, the Thoracoscopy, into the chest area. The physician can then move the tube around to look at the condition of the organs and the lining in the chest and abdomen area. This is often how tumors and abnormal growths are identified.

Latency

Mesothelioma is often caused by exposure to asbestos. The problem with the cancer is it has a long latency period. Latency simply refers to the time it takes from the asbestos exposure to the development of cancer. With Mesothelioma, the latency period can be 40 years or more.

Extrapleural Pneumonectomy

This phrase refers to a very aggressive surgical procedure undertaken when patients are well along with Mesothelioma. The surgery involves the removal of cancerous areas including, but not limited to, an entire lung, the membrane covering the heart, parts of the diaphragm and even part of the lining of the chest.

Obviously, the above represents a small sampling of the terminology you will run into in the field of Mesothelioma. Should you or someone close to you be diagnosed with this cancer, take the time to learn the terminology in the field. It will make your treatment decisions clearer.

Author: Thomas Ajava