Dictionary meaning: A benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumor affecting the lining of the chest or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos particles in the air increases the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer affecting the abdominal cavity, chest cavity, and the region surrounding the heart. Due to its uncommon nature, mesothelioma is typically difficult to diagnose and treat. It has been connected with exposure to asbestos, a material formerly present in many work environments. Only about 3,000 individuals are diagnosed annually.

Mesothelioma is a life-threatening disease and cannot be left untreated. The sooner it is diagnosed the better a patient's chances are of fighting this deadly cancer. Please contact a qualified physician immediately if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

For more information check out:

Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers from National Cancer Institute
http://cis.nci.nih.gov/fact/6_36.htm

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation
http://www.marf.org/

http://www.mesothelioma-source.org/

http://www.indiacancer.org/coca/m/meso.html

Mesothelioma - X-ray - Images - PET
http://www.mirg.org/xray/xray-mesothelioma.shtml

The first breakthrough that has given mesothelioma sufferers hope is the approval of a new treatment called Alimta...
http://www.mesolink.org/mesothelioma-news/050104-new-tests-and-treatments.html

Mesothelioma articles from Cancerhelp.org.uk
http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/help/default.asp?page=4388