Features of malignant mesothelioma

Symptoms

General symptoms

Besides the usual presenting symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath, those with malignant mesothelioma may suffer a number of other clinical features, including:

• Pleural effusion. This is a collection of fluid in the space between the parietal and visceral pleura. At the time of presentation, >50% of those with malignant mesothelioma have a large pleural effusion.
• Fever, chills and sweats.
• Weakness and malaise.
• Weight loss.
• Deteriorating 'performance status'.
• Clotting disorders and pulmonary embolus (a blood clot in the lungs).
• Anemia.

Those with a pleural effusion are more likely to complain of shortness of breath, while those without one usually have chest pain, weight loss and fever.