Pleural mesothelioma, also known as mesothelioma of the pleura, is a tumor in the tissues surrounding the lungs. The pleura are a thin layer of tissue that surrounds the lungs and lines the inside of the chest. In order to protect the lungs, the pleura produces a small amount of fluid that helps cover the lungs causing more uniform movements during breathing.
Pleural mesothelioma symptoms may include breathing problems, chest pains, back pains, pains in the ribs, fluid accumulation in the tissue lining the lungs, hoarseness, coughing up blood, swelling of the face and arms muscle weakness, paralysis and sensory loss. (more…)