Symptom 9: Lumps Under the Skin on the Chest
When it comes to mesothelioma, lumps under the skin on the chest can be among the most visible and alarming symptoms. These aren’t just mere skin anomalies; they are physical evidence of an underlying condition that’s aggressive and invasive. Originating from the mesothelial cells that line the chest cavity and the lungs, as the disease progresses, it can break the boundaries of these internal areas and manifest as lumps on the chest wall.
The presence of lumps, especially in someone with a history of asbestos exposure, can be a significant indicator for doctors. These lumps often mean that the disease has moved to a more advanced stage. By feeling these lumps, doctors can sometimes gauge the extent to which the mesothelioma has advanced. Further, diagnostic procedures like biopsies can be performed on these lumps to understand the nature of the cells and confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis.
The appearance of lumps might necessitate a change in the treatment strategy. Given their indication of advanced disease, a more aggressive intervention could be considered. However, it’s not just about treating the lump itself. While surgical procedures might help in removing or reducing the size of the lump, a more holistic approach addressing the root cause, mesothelioma, is imperative. This might mean a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. (9)
