A patient with peritoneal mesothelioma may not demonstrate symptoms of the cancer for 20 to 50 years after initial asbestos exposure since it often takes years for mesothelioma to manifest. In the case of peritoneal mesothelioma, asbestos fibers travel into the peritoneal layers where they cause irritation and inflammation and the development of cancerous cells which divide and grow uncontrollably. The cells cause thickening of the peritoneum and fluid build-up in the peritoneal layers. As the cancerous cells continue to divide overtime, tumors start to form. Most peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms are caused by this membrane thickening, fluid build-up, and eventual tumor development - all of which put pressure on internal organs.
Peritoneal mesothelioma symptoms include:
Abdominal pain or swelling
Changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation)
Development of lumps under the skin on the abdomen
Night sweats or fever
Unexplained weight loss
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue
Anemia