Mesothelioma, also known as malignant mesothelioma. Malignant mesothelioma is cancer that starts in the cells that line certain parts of the body, especially the chest, belly, and heart. The lining formed by these cells is called as mesothelium. These cells protect organs by making a special fluid that allows the organs to move. For instance, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move during breathing.
Tumors of the mesothelium can be benign or they can be cancerous. A cancerous tumor of the mesothelium is called as malignant mesothelioma, but this is often shortened as mesothelioma.
