Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is a rare cancer often diagnosed in people who have been exposed to high levels of asbestos. The malignancy affects the pleura, a thin membrane of lubricating cells that lines the lungs and chest wall. It sometimes takes ten years or more for changes to appear that are indicative of pleural disease, and even longer for symptoms to manifest. These differences can include a thickening or calcification of the pleural lining—a condition commonly diagnosed as pleural plaques. Conditions like pleural calcification or the development of pleural plaques often serve as precursors to mesothelioma.

In most instances, pleural disease is not considered fatal but it can cause diminished lung function and may confirm that a person has sustained significant asbestos exposure. Patients diagnosed with pleural conditions are generally considered to be at a higher risk for developing the more severe pleural mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma