|  | Cancer | Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and the Brain

Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was used for many decades in a variety of home goods and building supplies. Most often, the disease originates in the lungs or abdominal cavity. However, the cancer can also affect the pericardium, testicles and brain.

  1. Metastatic Cancer

    • When a cancer has metastasized, that means that it has spread throughout the body from the original organ or tissue from which it manifested initially. In the case of mesothelioma, the cancer spreads from the chest or abdominal cavity to the brain.

    Timing

    • Generally speaking, mesothelioma does not spread to the brain until Stage III or IV. However, this does not always occur.

    Spread

    • It is thought that because many cases of mesothelioma originate in the lungs, it is relatively easy for mesothelioma cancer cells to be transported along with oxygen throughout the body.

    Detection

    • MRI or CT scans can be used to confirm the presence of cancerous masses in the brain.

    Treatment

    • When mesothelioma has spread to the brain, it can become difficult to treat. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be options. Surgery may be an option for some patients, provided that the patient physically strong enough to endure the trauma of surgery.

Mesothelioma - Related Articles