The Firm You Go to When the 
Stakes Are High

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Attorneys

Filing a Peritoneal Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Like other types of mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. When microscopic asbestos fibers enter the body, either by being breathed in or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining around the lungs, abdomen, heart, and testicles. As the body attempts to rid the body of these fibers, it can lead to the growth of cancerous cells.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that forms in the lining around the abdomen. Those who have been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma may be entitled to financial compensation—and Levy Konigsberg can help.

Our nationally renowned firm is widely recognized as a leader in mesothelioma litigation. Our founding partners have been fighting for the rights of those diagnosed with mesothelioma and other asbestos-related health conditions since the 1970s, and Attorney Stan Levy was one of the first personal injury attorneys to pursue mesothelioma litigation in the United States. In our decades in practice, we have obtained a breadth of experience, knowledge, and resources that many other law firms simply cannot match. Most of all, we remain committed to our clients. Our top priority is ensuring that you have the answers and information you need to move forward in your recovery.

Contact us online or call (800) 315-3806 today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

What Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a form of malignant, asbestos-related cancer that affects the lining around the stomach and other abdominal organs, known as the peritoneum. Peritoneal mesothelioma is less common than pleural mesothelioma, which affects the pleura, or the lining surrounding the lungs. While pleural mesothelioma accounts for about 70 to 75 percent of all mesothelioma cases in the U.S., peritoneal mesothelioma only represents about 10 to 20 percent of cases.

Although there is less research on peritoneal mesothelioma than pleural mesothelioma, the overall outlook for those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma is often better than those diagnosed with other forms of this type of cancer.

What Causes Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

The only known cause of peritoneal mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a group of minerals that has long been used in a variety of industrial and consumer goods thanks to its strength and naturally occurring heat-resistant qualities. However, when asbestos is disturbed, it releases microscopic fibers that can be inhaled or ingested.

When ingested, these fibers can move from the digestive tract and/or the lymphatic system and become lodged in the abdomen. The body’s unsuccessful attempts to rid itself of these fibers leads to inflammation, which, in turn, can lead to the growth of cancerous tumors as inflammation and irritation continues for years or even decades. Tumors typically form as a result of damaged DNA, caused by extensive irritation and inflammation, which can lead to abnormal or excessive cell growth.

Like other types of mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning the cancer can remain undetected for years. The “latency period” refers to the amount of time that passes between when the cancer begins to form and when symptoms first appear. The average latency period for peritoneal mesothelioma is anywhere from 20 to 40 years. By the time the cancer is detected, it has often spread, meaning the patient has already reached an advanced stage of cancer.

Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Early symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma mimic symptoms of many other gastrointestinal diseases and abdominal disorders, which can make it difficult to detect. People experiencing early signs of peritoneal mesothelioma may suffer from misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, which can lead to delayed treatment.

Some of the earliest signs of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

  • Bloating
  • Abdominal pain
  • Tenderness around the abdomen
  • Constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive issues

Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained and unintentional weight loss
  • Night sweats
  • Fever
  • Fatigue

If you have a history of asbestos exposure, and you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention right away. Be sure to inform your doctor of your history of asbestos exposure and continue to carefully monitor your health for new or worsening symptoms.

What Are the Stages of Peritoneal Mesothelioma?

Similar to other types of cancer, peritoneal mesothelioma is categorized in stages. These stages represent the severity of the cancer’s progression.

The different stages of peritoneal mesothelioma include:

  • Stage 1: Tumors are limited to the peritoneum (abdominal lining) and the extent of cancerous tissues is minimal. There is no cancer detected in the lymph nodes.
  • Stage 2: Tumors remain limited to the peritoneum and have not spread to the lymph nodes, but the extent of cancerous tissue is considered “moderate.”
  • Stage 3: Tumors have typically spread beyond the peritoneum, including but not limited to the lymph nodes, and the extent of cancerous tissue is more severe.
  • Stage 4: Although there is no specific criteria for stage 4 peritoneal mesothelioma, most medical professionals agree that extensive tumors throughout are an indication of this stage.

As with all forms of cancer, early detection and treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma is associated with better outcomes, including longer life expectancy. When cancer is caught in its early stages, it is more treatable, and the prognosis tends to be more favorable. Unfortunately, because of its long latency period, peritoneal mesothelioma is most commonly diagnosed after it has progressed to more advanced stages.

How Is Peritoneal Mesothelioma Treated?

There are several different treatment options for those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma:

  • Surgery: In eligible patients, surgical removal of cancerous tumors (“cytoreductive surgery”) through a process known as a “peritonectomy” can be an effective treatment method when combined with heated chemotherapy. Known as “hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy” (HIPEC), this treatment method is typically done on a case-by-case basis, as it is relatively aggressive. Less than 40 percent of patients qualify for this treatment. HIPEC has been associated with an extended life expectancy of five years or more.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy (or “chemo”) is the most common treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma. Those who do not qualify for HIPEC can undergo chemo alone, which can help shrink existing tumors and prevent the growth of new cancerous tissue. Common chemotherapy drugs used in the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma include carboplatin, cisplatin, gemcitabine, and pemetrexed.
  • Palliative Care: Palliative care is a specialized type of medical treatment intended to ease symptoms and provide relief to patients living with serious medical conditions. Palliative care is not the same as end-of-life care, though it can provide relief to individuals living with terminal illnesses. Often, palliative treatments are used alongside other cancer treatments, such as HIPEC or systematic chemotherapy. Examples of palliative treatments for peritoneal mesothelioma include paracentesis procedures (used to drain excess abdominal fluid), pain medications, and physical therapy.

In general, the prognosis for individuals with peritoneal mesothelioma is slightly better than those diagnosed with other forms of this type of cancer, such as pleural mesothelioma. The average life expectancy for peritoneal mesothelioma patients who do not receive any treatment is about 6 months. Those who undergo chemotherapy alone have an average life expectancy of 12 months, and those who are eligible for surgery and heated chemotherapy (HIPEC) may survive for five years or more. Approximately half of peritoneal mesothelioma patients who receive HIPEC treatment live for more than five years.

How a Mesothelioma Attorney Can Help

Because mesothelioma, including peritoneal mesothelioma, is closely associated with asbestos exposure, those diagnosed with this form of cancer may be eligible for financial compensation. This is because asbestos manufacturers have long known about the dangers associated with asbestos exposure, yet they failed to warn the public about these dangers, putting countless lives at risk.

If you have been diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, or if your loved one passed away from this type of cancer, you have the right to seek justice—and Levy Konigsberg can help.

Our peritoneal mesothelioma attorneys represent clients in New York, New Jersey, and nationwide. Throughout our decades in practice, we have developed a reputation as authorities in mesothelioma litigation and have helped countless clients recover the maximum compensation they were owed for their medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

To date, we have secured more than $3 Billion in compensation for our clients, including many million- and multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts. Our attorneys have served as lead counsel in numerous groundbreaking cases, and we have achieved record-setting results on behalf of those suffering from mesothelioma and their families. Our efforts in this area of law have even led to changes in the law and have helped shape public health policies, making the world a safer place.

As your legal team, Levy Konigsberg will be there to guide you every step of the way. We will handle every detail of your case, from evaluating the extent of your injuries and damages to identifying the liable party and building a powerful, evidence-based case on your behalf. We are here to answer any questions you may have and address your concerns, all while providing the personal attention and compassionate support you deserve.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

At Levy Konigsberg, we fight for what’s right. Our peritoneal mesothelioma lawyers have dedicated their practice to standing up to the biggest companies in the world, including major asbestos manufacturers who would seek to take advantage of the less powerful. No challenge is too big or too difficult for our team—we have the decades of experience, world-class resources, and proven legal acumen to effectively advocate for you and your recovery.

Our multilingual staff assists clients in a variety of languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and more. We offer completely free consultations, either in person at one of our office locations, or by phone. Levy Konigsberg accepts peritoneal mesothelioma cases nationwide.

Request a free consultation today; call (800) 315-3806 or submit a secure online contact form.

A TEAM COMMITTED TO DOING WHAT IS RIGHT

Find out whether you have a case by speaking to one of our experienced lawyers via our 24/7 toll-free hotline or by submitting an email inquiry. Our attorneys will be quick to respond to you and happy to answer all of your questions.

Know the Difference

Committed to Doing What's Right
  • Over $3 Billion Won

    We have represented numerous individuals and groups of workers, winning for them multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts.

  • There's No Case Too Big

    Our team has achieved groundbreaking victories in highly complex cases and has gone up against some of the toughest defendants in the country.

  • Trial Attorneys

    Our attorneys excel in the courtroom and are not afraid to bring a case in front of a jury if a fair settlement for the client has not been reached.

  • A Thought Leader in the Industry

    Our firm's knowledge and experience are in high demand, and many news outlets have asked us to share our legal expertise.

  • Access to World Class Resources

    Our experienced attorneys use cutting-edge technology and highly regarded experts to help us achieve the best possible result for our clients.

  • Changing the World for Good

    We not only want to achieve the best possible results for our clients, but we also strive to prevent future harm by changing public health policies.

Thousands of Clients Helped

Hear What They Have to Say
  • Professional, responsive and very good at their jobs.

    “From the first visit to my home, to my last visit to the office to collect my settlement, I was very happy with the services provided by this firm. They are professional, very responsive and very good ...”

    - Lisa Ross
  • They have truly gone above and beyond.

    “I have been beyond pleased how Levy Konigsberg is handling my matter. They answer my questions in a timely matter and when warranted, ease my worries and concerns. They have truly gone above and ...”

    - Anne Fahey
  • I put my Faith and Trust into Corey Stern!

    “Selecting a Law firm to represent me was one of the biggest decisions I've had to make in my life. I put my Faith and Trust into Corey Stern, and he exceeded all my expectations.”

    - Dennis McGowan
  • With this team on my side we came out on top.

    “Levy Konigsberg and team are a group of men and women that give their all, down to the receptionist. I had a case that was almost unbeatable but with this team on my side we came out on top. They keep ...”

    - Angie Garrido
  • Very happy with our settlement.

    “My husband and I were VERY happy with our experience with this firm. They were always caring and really helped us go through this in a very hard time in our lives .We continue to be in touch with the ...”

    - Lori Rosa
  • Wow is all I can say.

    “It has been a few years now but I needed to post this. My dad suffered so much from Mesothelioma. My brother looked into the law and our rights. Unfortunately he died also before anything was done. It ...”

    - Carol N.
  • Their dedication to receive the highest results for their clients was amazing.

    “Working with Levy Koningsberg LLP was a very positive experience. Their professionalism and curiosity was outstanding. I was a pleasure working with this firm. Their dedication to receive the highest ...”

    - Emily DeRogatis
  • Such a great team!

    “The whole team at Levy, Konigsberg LLP have been extremely professional and kind during our most difficult time. They keep you informed during the process, check in often asking if there are any ...”

    - Kevin Kober
  • We definitely got the right law firm!

    “Levy Konigsberg represented my daughter Linda, who was diagnosed with mesothelioma at 16 years old. She endured many surgeries and chemotherapy including HIPEC. She traveled the country seeking ...”

    - Mark Wells
  • Levy Konigsberg continued to help my family fight for the justice my father deserves.

    “Levy Konigsberg was there for my father as soon as he was diagnosed with mesothelioma they helped him get medical treatment in another state that specializes in his condition and even provided housing ...”

    - Stephanie Vitale
LEVY KONIGSBERG IN THE NATIONAL MEDIA

CHOOSE LEVY KONIGSBERG

Start with a FREE Consultation
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.