What Organs are Affected by Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer, with approximately 3,000 new diagnoses in the U.S. every year. However, while mesothelioma is rare, it is pretty aggressive and often fatal. This illness develops in the mesothelium, which is the thin protective lining that surrounds most internal organs. However, while mesothelioma begins in the mesothelium, it often spreads over time, disrupting the functioning of vital organs and leading to serious complications. Advanced mesothelioma can affect several organs, like the lungs, diaphragm, liver, kidney, spleen, and even the heart. Understanding how mesothelioma can affect different organs can help patients and their families recognize symptoms and seek timely treatment.

Lungs

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma. This type of mesothelioma develops in the pleura, which is the lining surrounding the lungs and chest wall. While it does not originate in the lung tissue itself, tumors can press against and limit lung function, making it hard to breathe. Often, pleural mesothelioma causes pleural effusion or fluid buildup in the area between the lungs and chest cavity, which can further compress the lungs and can sometimes cause them to collapse.

Diaphragm

The diaphragm is quite vulnerable to mesothelioma, especially pleural mesothelioma, since it is located below the lungs and shares the same lining as the lungs. As tumors grow, they can thicken and stiffen the diaphragm. A person whose diaphragm has been affected may experience lower chest or upper abdominal pain, reduced lung function, and shoulder discomfort. If mesothelioma advances, it can penetrate the diaphragm and impact abdominal organs as well.

Liver

When peritoneal mesothelioma, which develops in the lining of the abdomen, advances, it can spread to or press against the liver, blood vessels, or bile ducts and interfere with liver function and digestion. If the liver is affected, it can cause;

• Jaundice
• Upper right abdominal pain
• Nausea or lack of appetite

Kidneys

While mesothelioma does not usually start in the kidneys, these crucial organs can be affected, too. As peritoneal mesothelioma tumors grow, they may affect the kidneys indirectly. These tumors can press against the kidneys or ureters, resulting in blockages and reduced kidney function. Additionally, mesothelioma treatments can strain kidney health, making it crucial for doctors to monitor patients closely.

Spleen

The spleen is located in the upper left abdomen. This organ helps filter blood and support immune function. When peritoneal mesothelioma reaches an advanced stage, the tumors can spread to or press against the spleen, affecting its ability to filter blood or support the immune system. Patients whose spleen has been affected by mesothelioma may face increased risks of infections and other complications.

Heart

Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare but very serious form of mesothelioma that forms in the pericardium (the lining around the heart). Tumors in this area can cause fluid buildup, inflammation, and restrict the heart’s function. Some common signs that may indicate the heart has been affected include shortness of breath, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat.

Mesothelioma’s ability to spread to other organs makes it especially dangerous. Recognizing the signs that might indicate an organ has been affected is crucial for ensuring early medical intervention.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers                                                                       

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help you live a more comfortable life.