Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was used for many decades in a variety of home goods and building supplies. Most often, the disease originates in the lungs or abdominal cavity. However, the cancer can also affect the pericardium, testicles and brain.
Metastatic Cancer
When a cancer has metastasized, that means that it has spread throughout the body from the original organ or tissue from which it manifested initially. In the case of mesothelioma, the cancer spreads from the chest or abdominal cavity to the brain.
Timing
Generally speaking, mesothelioma does not spread to the brain until Stage III or IV. However, this does not always occur.
Spread
It is thought that because many cases of mesothelioma originate in the lungs, it is relatively easy for mesothelioma cancer cells to be transported along with oxygen throughout the body.
Detection
MRI or CT scans can be used to confirm the presence of cancerous masses in the brain.
Treatment
When mesothelioma has spread to the brain, it can become difficult to treat. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be options. Surgery may be an option for some patients, provided that the patient physically strong enough to endure the trauma of surgery.
Tags: abdominal cavity, mesothelioma cancer, spread brain, throughout body