Pericardial Mesothelioma
What is Pericardial Mesothelioma?
The rarest form of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma develops in the lining, or pericardium, of the heart, and accounts for less than 50 cases diagnosed per year in the United States. Unlike pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma, it is unclear as to how asbestos fibers reach the pericardium. Moreover, pericardial mesothelioma is the most difficult to detect, and is often detected after a person has passed away (usually via autopsy or post-mortem examination).
What are the Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Often mimicking other diseases, pericardial mesothelioma causes the following symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart murmurs, fatigue, fluid buildup around the heart, swelling of the extremities, heart arrhythmias, a more prominent jugular vein, and accentuated variance in the pulse during respiration.
What are the Treatment Options for Pericardial Mesothelioma?
The standard treatment for this disease is a pericardiectomy, or removal of the lining of the heart that is affected by the cancer. A pericardiocentesis can also be performed to remove fluid buildup and pressure around the heart.
What is the Prognosis after Being Diagnosed with Pericardial Mesothelioma?
Although extremely low, one’s prognosis after being diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma typically depends on a number of different factors including:
- The stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis – undoubtedly, those who are diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma early have the greatest chances of survival, as they have more treatment options and a more favorable life expectancy. Overall, the earlier the disease is detected, the more treatments options available.
- The specific type of mesothelioma – as noted above, there are a number of different form of mesothelioma. Depending on the specific location of mesothelioma in addition to the type of cells involved (whether epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic), these altogether affect a person’s prognosis. Typically, those who are diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting the lining of the abdomen) have a more favorable prognosis than those suffering from pleural (affecting the lining of the lungs) or pericardial mesothelioma.
- The person’s age and overall health – for those who are younger and have been diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma, having a healthy lifestyle gives you a greater chance of success than those who are older and in poor health.
Unfortunately, if detected, the prognosis for pericardial mesothelioma is usually six months or less. However, if you are diagnosed with this disease, there is hope. Don’t fight cancer alone and without the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact Stern Law, PLLC to receive the skilled and compassionate legal representation you need.
Why Stern Law, PLLC?
After receiving a serious diagnosis such as pericardial mesothelioma, you need compassionate and skilled representation to help you fight for your right to be compensated for your condition. When you meet with one of the seasoned asbestos exposure lawyers at Stern Law, PLLC, we will take the time you deserve to review your case, determine the sources of your exposure, and develop a plan of legal action to fight for the compensation you need for your condition. Contact Stern Law, PLLC now at (844) 808-7529 to schedule your free consultation. We are available immediately to review your case.
