Peritoneal mesothelioma is caused mainly due to the exposure to asbestos and it is found common in men than women. It accounts to about one-fifth of all reported cases of mesothelioma cancer. The lining of abdominal cavity is affected by peritoneal mesothelioma and its symptoms appear only after twenty to thirty years of such exposure. If proper medical attention is not given promptly, it can turn out to be disastrous. A tissue biopsy can lead to an effective diagnosis whereas baffling results will be produced by methods like CT scan.

The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are formation of lumps in abdomen, pain in abdomen, fatigue, fever, collection of fluid in the abdomen, weight loss, lack of proper functioning of digestive system, anemia etc. Before the symptoms of the cancer appear, some patients may experience uneasy feelings. It may also happen that peritoneal mesothelioma is diagnosed while the affected person goes for a check up related to some other health issues like pelvic mass, gall bladder, hernia etc.

Various stages of this cancer can be found out in the tumor, lymph nodes and metastases system (TNM). General cancers are determined using this system. Localized abrasions, which are shown in the first level, are totally removable. In the second stage, the disease affects the abdominal cavity on peritoneal and organ surfaces. The disease is curable in this stage with the help of strong treatments. The third stage is when the infection spreads to liver and colon thereby affecting their functions. Still the infection remains inside the abdominal cavity. When the infection spreads from the abdominal cavity to adjoining organs the infection reaches the fourth stage.

In many peritoneal mesothelioma cases, strong medication and other treatment procedures are found to be effective. Innumerable side effects are associated with chemotherapy and other medications. Sufficient intake of nutrients and other vital minerals will help the body to manage the side effects to some extent.

The physical health and age of the patient are important factors which determine the success of treatment. Proper treatment and timely diagnosis are vital factors which provide relief to the patients.