What is Mesothelioma?

Tumors of the mesothelium can be benign, noncancerous, or malignant, cancerous.  A malignant tumor of the mesothelium is called a malignant mesothelioma, however, malignant mesothelioma is often simply called mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a disease in which cancer cells form in the lining of the chest, stomach or heart.

The lining or mesothelium helps protect organs by producing a fluid that allows organs to move.  The fluid makes it easier for the lungs to expand and collapse during breathing.  The lining of the chest is called the pleura and the lining of the stomach is called as the peritoneum. The lining of the heart is called the pericardium.
Mesothelioma  is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order.  These cells can also spread from their original site to other organs and damage them as well.