Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer that affects the lining of the chest cavity. Patients diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma have almost always had extensive asbestos exposure, although in some cases, malignant pleural mesothelioma is diagnosed in persons with no history of asbestos exposure.

One of the main problems in diagnosing malignant pleural mesothelioma is that the disease has a very slow onset. Additionally, many individuals with malignant pleural mesothelioma do not immediately seek treatment because of the generalized nature of their symptoms. Early signs of malignant pleural mesothelioma include persistent pain in the chest, shortness of breath, weight loss and fever. In addition, malignant pleural mesothelioma closely resembles a variety of other cancers, making an exact diagnosis difficult. Because malignant pleural mesothelioma manifests itself so late and is so difficult to diagnose, most patients are not diagnosed until the malignant pleural mesothelioma is already in later stages. Treatment usually focuses on making the patient as comfortable as possible. Malignant pleural mesothelioma victims may have a pleurectomy, removing part or all of the infected tissue lining the chest cavity. Malignant pleural mesothelioma patients have a median survival of 17 months after the initial symptoms appear.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by asbestos fibers which have been inhaled or swallowed. Most malignant pleural mesothelioma victims were exposed to asbestos in very high concentrations or for an extended period of time. malignant pleural mesothelioma, a very rare form of cancer in the general population, occurs most frequently in individuals who worked with asbestos in large quantities, although malignant pleural mesothelioma has also been diagnosed in persons exposed to asbestos through their homes, schools, or workplaces. Malignant pleural mesothelioma victims exposed to asbestos through anothers fault may be entitled to financial restitution. Malignant pleural mesothelioma patients and their families could recoup medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. Attorneys experienced in malignant pleural mesothelioma cases may be able to advise you as to your legal rights.