Pericardial mesothelioma develops in the pericardium that covers and protects the heart. Some experts believe that during the inhalation of asbestos fibers into the lungs, some fibers through bloodstream may get stuck in the pericardium. After a long period of time, the asbestos fibers cause the cells of the pericardium to undergo changes that may result in cancer. Once cells become malignant it multiply rapidly, these malignant cells continue to grow and lead to pericardial thickening and eventually leads to development of tumor. Fluids starts accumulating in the pericardial membrane which, combined with the thickening of the layers, puts pressure on the heart.
Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma: Pericardial mesothelioma is the rare cancer of all mesothelioma. It is very difficult to diagnose also, as their symptoms resembles with hear disease. A pericardial mesothelioma diagnosis may require a variety of tests to confirm the presence of cancer. Most symptoms of mesothelioma are caused by fluid in pericardium and thickening of pericardial layers.
These are the following symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma:
Difficulty breathing, even when at rest
Fever or night sweats
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Chest pain