Warning Signs Of Peritoneal Cancer

Pleural Effusion

Pleural effusion can affect an individual who has cancer of the peritoneum as a symptom of their malignancy. Pleural effusion occurs when excess fluid builds up in between the membranes that cover and protect an individual's lungs. A healthy individual has a small quantity of fluid that remains between the pleura to lubricate the area and help with breathing. However, individuals who have a malignant growth in their peritoneum can experience an accumulation of too much protein-rich fluid in the pleura. This symptom happens when the malignant cells infiltrate the lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes in the abdominal and chest regions. The lymph nodes and lymph vessels are responsible for absorbing fluid from tissues around the body when there is an excess. However, malignant cells can obstruct the process of fluid absorption and lymphatic circulation in certain affected parts of the body. When peritoneal cancer has this effect in the chest and abdominal region, the fluid begins to accumulate in nearby tissues like the pleura because it has no place to go. Pleural effusion in peritoneal cancer patients is especially indicative of a more advanced stage of malignancy.