Symptoms of Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma

Posted on: February 26, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

---

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, a less common and more aggressive subtype of mesothelioma, poses diagnostic challenges due to its nonspecific symptoms and its ability to mimic other conditions. Understanding the symptoms specific to the location of the cancer—either in the pleura (lining of the lungs) or the peritoneum (lining of the abdomen)—is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike to prompt early diagnostic investigations and potentially improve outcomes.

Pleural Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Symptoms

When sarcomatoid mesothelioma affects the pleura, the symptoms primarily involve respiratory and thoracic manifestations. These symptoms are often mistaken for other pulmonary conditions, which can delay the diagnosis. Key symptoms include:

• Chest Pain: Often persistent and worsening, it can be sharp or dull and is not relieved by common pain management strategies.
• Fatigue: A common symptom due to the body’s response to cancer and possibly due to reduced lung function.
• Fluid Buildup in the Chest (Pleural Effusion): This can cause pressure on the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and discomfort.
• Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Initially, it may occur with exertion, but as the disease progresses, it can become a constant issue.
• Worsening Cough: A persistent cough that may be dry or accompanied by sputum; it can worsen as the disease progresses.

Peritoneal Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma Symptoms

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma of the peritoneum is particularly rare, and its symptoms can be easily confused with common gastrointestinal or abdominal disorders. Symptoms include:

• Abdominal Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, often worsening as the cancer progresses.
• Constipation or Diarrhea: Changes in bowel habits can be a result of the tumor pressing on the intestines or due to the general inflammatory response in the abdomen.
• Fluid Buildup in the Abdomen (Peritoneal Effusion): Also known as ascites, this can cause significant abdominal swelling and discomfort.
• Night Sweats: These can be intense and are often related to the cancer’s metabolic effects on the body.
• Unexplainable Weight Loss: Often seen in cancer patients, this symptom can occur even without changes in diet or exercise habits.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Given the aggressive nature of sarcomatoid mesothelioma and its nonspecific symptomatology, early and accurate diagnosis is essential but challenging. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies (such as CT scans and MRIs), biopsies, and histological examination to differentiate sarcomatoid mesothelioma from other types of cancer and benign conditions.

Treatment options vary based on the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient’s overall health, and whether the cancer is confined to the pleura or peritoneum. Options may include surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care to manage symptoms.

Early detection and treatment initiation are crucial for improving the prognosis of sarcomatoid mesothelioma, which generally has a poorer outcome compared to other mesothelioma cell types due to its high aggressiveness and resistance to treatment.