Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent form of mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent form of mesothelioma. According to the American Cancer Society, three-quarters of all mesothelioma cases are pleural mesothelioma. Inhaling asbestos fibers is the primary cause of pleural mesothelioma. There are other factors such as genetics, smoking, and exposure to the simian virus. Pleural mesothelioma is a difficult cancer to treat because its symptoms do not appear until it is well advanced.

Pleural Mesothelioma. The pleural lining has two layers: the visceral (inner) layer is next to the lung and the parietal (outer) layer lines the chest. Pleural mesothelioma causes the pleura to thicken. This thickening of the pleura might begin to press onto the lungs. Because pleural mesothelioma is more common and often spreads to the peritoneal cavity, it is sometimes necessary to determine if pleural mesothelioma is the true cause of the symptoms.