Pleural mesothelioma, what is it?

Pleural mesothelioma, also known as mesothelioma of the pleura, is a tumor of the lining surrounding the lungs. There are two types of pleural mesothelioma: benign and malignant. Benign pleural mesothelioma is a non-cancerous tumor that has not spread to other organs of the body.

Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs. In the advanced stages of pleural mesothelioma, the cancer may spread to other nearby organs, including the heart, abdomen, and lymph nodes. Currently, the prognosis for those diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma is not good. Many patients die within six months of diagnosis.