What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The latent period, which is the period between actually being in contact with the mineral and the onset of mesothelioma, can be quite long. Usually, there is a latent period of approximately 30-40 years before symptoms appear. It is not uncommon for patients to complain of non-specific symptoms for a number of months prior to a confirmed diagnosis. The non- specific symptoms seen in patients, regardless of the mesothelioma-type, include fever, malaise, weight loss and tiredness. Specific symptoms depend upon the type of mesothelioma (site of origin). Interestingly, the cancer cells in mesothelioma have ability to produce fluid that fills up the cavity they line (known as effusion). Majority of symptoms are due to fluid accumulation.