Mesothelioma complications in adults
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. While it most commonly affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), it can also develop in the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma). In adults, mesothelioma presents significant health challenges, not only due to its insidious onset but also because of the serious complications it can induce over time.
One of the foremost complications associated with mesothelioma is respiratory distress. As the cancer develops in the pleural lining, it often causes thickening and accumulation of fluid—known as pleural effusion. This buildup compresses the lungs, leading to shortness of breath, chest pain, and decreased oxygen levels. Over time, this can severely impair a patient’s ability to breathe normally, affecting their overall quality of life. Managing this complication typically involves draining the excess fluid, but recurrent effusions are common, necessitating ongoing medical interventions.
Another major complication is the invasion of surrounding tissues and organs. Mesothelioma tends to grow aggressively and can infiltrate the chest wall, diaphragm, and even the heart in advanced stages. Such invasion can cause pain, neurological symptoms if nerves are affected, and impair the function of the involved organs. For example, when the tumor involves the diaphragm, it can compromise breathing further and complicate surgical options.
Malnutrition and weight loss are also prevalent in adults with mesothelioma. The disease often induces systemic effects, including metabolic changes and reduced appetite, leading to cachexia—a severe form of weight and muscle loss. This state weakens patients, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of infections and other complications. Addressing nutritional needs becomes essential in comprehensive care.
The spread of mesothelioma to other parts of the body, known as metastasis, introduces additional complications. Common metastatic sites include lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, and bones. Bone metastases can cause pain, fractures, and neurological issues if they impinge on the spinal cord. Liver involvement may impair detoxification and blood clotting, while metastasis to the brain can lead to neurological deficits, seizures, or cognitive impairment.
Treatment-related complications are another concern. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, standard treatments for mesothelioma, can cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, immune suppression, and tissue damage. These side effects can predispose patients to infections and further complicate their overall health status. Surgical interventions, which may involve removing parts of the lung or other affected tissues, carry risks of bleeding, infection, and respiratory failure.
In conclusion, mesothelioma in adults presents a spectrum of complications that significantly impact prognosis and quality of life. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are critical to alleviating symptoms, controlling disease progression, and improving survival outcomes. Ongoing research continues to seek more effective treatments to mitigate these complications and offer hope to those affected by this challenging disease.
