Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It is categorized by the area of the body affected, and there are different types of mesothelioma cancer cells, which can develop anywhere in the mesothelium. Malignant mesothelioma is usually referred to simply as mesothelioma, but when non-cancerous tumors of the mesothelium develop, they maybe referred to as benign mesothelioma. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you need to act quickly. We can put you in touch with an experienced mesothelioma attorney with the ability to fight for your rights.
Types of Mesothelioma by Area of the Body
Malignant mesothelioma can affect the mesothelium in different areas of the body. It is possible to have more than one of the following types of mesothelioma:
- Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, accounting for about 75% of all cases. It forms in the pleural which is the lining of the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers.
- Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second-most common type, making up about 10% to 20% of cases. The peritoneum is the membrane that lines the abdomen and supports, protects and lubricates the abdominal organs. Asbestos fibers may reach the peritoneum after being ingested and working their way through digestive organs or through the lymphatic system after being inhaled.
- Pericardial mesothelioma is rare, accounting for about one percent of all mesothelioma cases. It affects the sac around the heart.
- Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest, making up less than one percent of cases. It develops in an outpouching of the peritoneum called the tunica vaginalis.
Types of Mesothelioma Cancer Cells
The two types of mesothelioma cancer cells are epithelioid and sarcomatoid. If you have mesothelioma you may have either or both types of cancer cells. When it is both it is called biphasic. Epithelioid mesothelioma is more common than sarcomatoid, making up about 70% of pleural mesothelioma cases.
While it is easy to tell epithelioid cancer cells from sarcomatoid cancer cells, it can be difficult to differentiate between epithelial mesothelioma cancer cells and other types of epithelial cancer cells. This can lead to misdiagnosis, including misdiagnosis with common type of lung cancer. Because treatments for lung cancer and mesothelioma are not the same, it is very important to get the correct diagnosis.
To learn more about mesothelioma and your legal rights, please contact us to be connected with an experienced mesothelioma attorney in your area right away.
