Mesothelioma cancer is a dreadful disease that spreads in the mesothelium tissues. It is generally the name of tissue that forms lining of different body organs such as heart, lungs, abdomen and reproductive organs. Lining around lungs is called pleural membrane and the lining around heart is called pericardium and these linings perform two functions. The internal organs are protected by them by producing a lubricating fluid and to allow the smooth movement of the internal organs. The disease affects the membranes and the names of the cancers depend on the tissue or linings they affect. Peritoneal mesothelioma, pleural mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma are the names of cancers of linings of abdomen, lungs and heart, respectively. The most common of all types of this cancer is Pleural mesothelioma. It is found in 70 % of the patients suffering from this cancer. While peritoneal 10% to 20% of the patients suffer from peritoneal mesothelioma. The third type of pericardial mesothelioma is rare.

The symptoms of mesothelioma cancers are same as of other common diseases and it makes the diagnosis of mesothelioma cancers a difficult task. Some of the symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are pain and swelling in abdomen, weakness, loss of weight, loss of appetite and nausea. Where as the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are persistent cough, difficulty in breathing, weight loss, loss of appetite, weakness, chest pains, lower back pains and difficulty in swallowing.

The history of this dreadful disease can be referred back to 1900s. To gather sufficient information about these mesothelioma cancers took around 60 years. Experts could conclude by the end of sixth decade of last century that exposure to asbestos particles is the reason behind the disease. J.C. Wagner was first researcher to report 32 cases of this cancer and confirmed its association with asbestos exposure. The cancers may remain asymptomatic in the body for even up to 50 years and the chances of survival are rare and the average survival period after diagnosis is not more than 12-24 months. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are some common treatments for all types of this cancer if diagnosed early. The people suffering from this disease can file lawsuits to recover damages for medical expenses and other damages.