Pericardial mesothelioma is a very rare form of mesothelioma that develops in the pericardium — the thin membrane surrounding the heart. It accounts for only about 1% or less of all mesothelioma cases, making it far less common than the pleural (lung lining) and peritoneal (abdominal lining) forms.
Cause
Like other forms of mesothelioma, it is linked to asbestos exposure, though because of its rarity the pathway by which fibers reach the pericardium is less fully understood than for pleural disease. As with all mesothelioma, it develops decades after exposure.
Symptoms
Because the tumor surrounds the heart, symptoms often relate to heart and circulatory function and can be mistaken for other cardiac conditions:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath, including when lying down
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Fluid buildup around the heart (pericardial effusion)
- Fatigue and difficulty breathing on exertion
Diagnosis & Treatment
Pericardial mesothelioma is especially difficult to diagnose because of its rarity and its location; it is sometimes found during treatment for another heart condition or only through biopsy. Imaging (echocardiogram, CT, MRI) and tissue sampling are used to confirm it. Because of where it grows, treatment options can be limited, and care is highly individualized — often focused on relieving pressure on the heart and managing symptoms, sometimes with chemotherapy. Care at an experienced mesothelioma center is especially important for this rare form.
If you or a loved one was diagnosed with pericardial mesothelioma and were exposed to asbestos at work, in the military, or in a building, you may have a legal claim.
This information is educational, drawn from sources such as the American Cancer Society and National Cancer Institute, and is not medical advice. Consult your own physicians about diagnosis and treatment.