Abdominal Mesothelioma (Peritoneal Mesothelioma)

Abdominal mesothelioma, most often referred to as peritoneal mesothelioma, is an extremely rare form of mesothelioma cancer. It is estimated that only 100 to 500 individuals are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the US each year. Abdominal mesothelioma is a cancer affecting the abdominal lining, or peritoneum, which is why it is sometimes referred to as "abdominal mesothelioma." The peritoneum membrane supports and covers the organs of the abdomen.

Specialists have two theories on how asbestos fibers enter the peritoneum and causes abdominal mesothelioma. The first theory is that the asbestos fibers are trapped by the mucus in the trachea or bronchi and eventually swallowed. The second theory is that asbestos fibers stuck in the lungs eventually move into the lymphatic system and are transferred to the peritoneum.

Abdominal Mesothelioma Symptoms 

Like all forms of asbestos-related cancers, abdominal mesothelioma can be dormant for decades. Symptoms of this may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling due to fluid accumulation
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Bowel obstruction
• Breathing difficulties

It is often quite difficult to diagnose abdominal mesothelioma, since the symptoms associated with asbestos cancer are often similar to those of other, less serious conditions.

However, if you believe you may have abdominal mesothelioma, you should contact your health care provider immediately. Your doctor’s first step will be to collect a full medical and asbestos exposure history, along with a thorough physical examination.

For cancers of the abdomen, your doctor may perform a laproscopy, which involves making a small opening in your abdomen and inserting a laproscope to take tissue samples.

At the Simmons firm we have been working with clients suffering from asbestos diseases for nearly a decade. In that time, we have represented thousands of individuals from all areas of the United States. Our skill and conviction, along with our dedication to personal client service, have helped us recover over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements for over 10,000 clients.*

If you believe you may have abdominal mesothelioma, please contact us for a free case evaluation.

Learn More About Mesothelioma:

» Types of Mesothelioma

» Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

» Mesothelioma Diagnosis

^{* Please note that recovery results vary per client. The recovery amounts in each case reflect the specific facts of that case. Further, recovery amounts in past cases are not a guarantee of future results.}