Mesothelioma is most often known as a lung cancer. It can show up in the lungs as pleural mesothelioma, but the lungs are not the only area of the body susceptible to this type of cancer.
The Mayo Clinic states mesothelioma infects tissues, so it can appear in various areas of tissue in the body.
The heart
Mesothelioma that appears in the heart impacts the tissue that surrounds the organ. The name for this type of condition is pericardial mesothelioma. It usually exhibits as chest pain and breathing difficulties.
The testicles
In men, tunica vaginalis may form. This is mesothelioma of the tissue in the testicles. It can develop a tumor or swelling.
The stomach
The stomach is also susceptible to this type of cancer. Forming in the tissue of the stomach, peritoneal mesothelioma usually creates pain and swelling in the abdomen.
Treatment for mesothelioma will depend on the area of the body in which it forms. Regardless of the location, this type of cancer is difficult to treat. There is no cure, and it can be aggressive. The best outcome will occur when you find the cancer early. For this reason, it is essential to understand that mesothelioma is not restricted to just the lungs. It can be difficult to understand the risks of pain, swelling or masses in other areas of the body when you think your risk is only for mesothelioma and your lungs feel fine. The false sense of security could put you at higher risk of ignoring the signs and letting your cancer advance before seeking treatment.