While many people think of mesothelioma as a lung disease, it can actually form in different parts of the body. The three main types are pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, and pericardial mesothelioma.

Each type has unique symptoms, treatment options, and outcomes. Understanding the differences can help patients and families recognize early warning signs, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions about care.

Pleural Mesothelioma (Lung Lining)

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type, making up about 75–80% of all cases. It develops in the lining of the lungs (the pleura) after asbestos fibers are inhaled.

Common pleural mesothelioma symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Persistent dry cough
• Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

Treatment options for pleural mesothelioma:

• Surgery to remove diseased tissue
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy
• Newer approaches such as immunotherapy

Because its symptoms resemble conditions like pneumonia or COPD, pleural mesothelioma is often misdiagnosed in the early stages.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Abdominal Lining)

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum) and represents about 10–20% of mesothelioma cases.

Key peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms include:

• Abdominal swelling or bloating
• Pain or tenderness in the stomach area
• Fluid buildup (ascites)
• Digestive problems such as nausea or appetite loss

Treatment options for peritoneal mesothelioma:

• HIPEC (Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy), where heated chemotherapy drugs are delivered directly into the abdomen
• Surgery combined with systemic chemotherapy

Compared to pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma sometimes responds more effectively to treatment, especially when HIPEC is available.

Pericardial Mesothelioma (Heart Lining)

Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest form, accounting for just 1–2% of all cases. It forms in the lining around the heart (pericardium) when asbestos fibers become lodged there.

Pericardial mesothelioma symptoms may include:

• Irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath, especially when lying down
• Fluid buildup around the heart (pericardial effusion)

Treatment options for pericardial mesothelioma:

Because it is so rare, pericardial mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose and treat. Surgery may be performed to reduce fluid buildup, and in some cases chemotherapy or radiation may be used. However, treatment choices are limited compared to other types.

Understanding the Differences

The type of mesothelioma a patient develops depends on where asbestos fibers lodge in the body.

• Pleural mesothelioma is the most common and affects the lungs, often leading to breathing problems and chest pain.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal lining and is linked to swelling, digestive issues, and fluid buildup in the stomach.
• Pericardial mesothelioma is extremely rare and impacts the lining of the heart, causing chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.

These differences are important because treatment options vary by type. Pleural mesothelioma may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Peritoneal mesothelioma patients may qualify for HIPEC, which has improved outcomes for many. Pericardial mesothelioma, while very rare, often has fewer available treatments due to its complexity.

Why Knowing the Type Matters

Understanding whether mesothelioma is pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial is crucial because:

• Each type affects the body differently.
• Symptoms vary, which can impact diagnosis.
• Treatment options depend on the type and location.
• Early recognition improves the chances of better outcomes.

Since asbestos exposure can take 20–60 years to cause symptoms, people with known exposure should monitor their health closely and seek medical attention for any new chest, abdominal, or breathing issues.

Key Takeaways

• Pleural mesothelioma: The most common type, affects the lungs, and often gets misdiagnosed as other lung diseases.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma: Found in the abdominal lining, sometimes treated effectively with HIPEC.
• Pericardial mesothelioma: The rarest type, develops around the heart, and has limited treatment options.

If you or a loved one has a history of asbestos exposure and is experiencing related symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately. Reach out today to take the first step toward justice and compensation.

Call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form to speak with an experienced Pennsylvania mesothelioma legal advocate.

Sources:

https://www.cancer.org

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/transient-ischemic-attack/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355684?

https://archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/niosh/topics/asbestos/default.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441858/?