Pericardial mesothelioma is the rarest type of mesothelioma and occurs in approximately 10% of cases. Symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and coughing.

Pericardial mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and develops in the membrane surrounding the heart. Since symptoms of pericardial mesothelioma are often similar to those associated with other types of mesothelioma, it is important that individuals consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Radiation therapy is the most common treatment for pericardial mesothelioma and has proven to be successful in some cases. Pericardial mesothelioma can also be treated with surgery or chemotherapy, though surgery is generally not preferred. By the time pericardial mesothelioma is diagnosed, the cancer is too developed to be treated with surgery, which rarely can remove all the tumors.