Types of Mesothelioma

There are different types of mesothelioma and, for treatment purposes, it is important to understand the differences.

Where the Cancer Starts

Pleural Mesothelioma - The cancer starts in the lining around the lungs (called the "pluera"). This is the most common type of mesothelioma.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma - The cancer starts in the lining around the stomach. (Note: This lining extends into the area of the scrotum and there are very rare instances where the cancer starts here. When it does, in men, it is sometimes referred to as "testicular mesothelioma.")

Pericardial Mesothelioma - The cancer starts in the lining around the heart. This type of mesothelioma is very uncommon.

Testicular Mesothelioma - The cancer starts in the tunica vaginalis - the serous membrane that surrounds the testis.

What Kind of Tissue is Involved

Epithelial Mesothelioma - The cancer cells are composed of a tissue in the body called "epithelium". It is usually the least aggressive of the types of mesothelioma.

Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma - The cancer cells are composed of a tissue in the body called "sarcomatous" cells. This is usually a more aggressive type of cancer.

Biphasic (or Mixed) Mesothelioma - The cancer cells are a mixture of epithelium and sarcomatous cells.

Malignant vs. Benign (Papillary) Mesothelioma

Malignant - All of the types of mesothelioma discussed above are varieties of malignant mesothelioma. If untreated, the malignant cells will continue to divide, grow and invade surrounding areas of the body. Even with treatment, this type of cancer is extremely difficult to eliminate or control.

Benign - In very rare cases, there is a type of mesothelioma that is benign, called "papillary" mesothelioma. It is usually found in women, in the lining around the uterus. The tumor cells of this type of mesothelioma will NOT invade other parts of the body. As a result, it is NOT considered a cancer or a fatal disease.

All the varieties of malignant mesothelioma share one important characteristic - asbestos is the only agreed-upon cause and compensation is available to people suffering from this disease. If you wish to learn more about your rights to compensation, CLICK HERE.