About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare form of asbestos cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells. These cells form tissue that surround or line the lungs, heart, and stomach. The mesothelial cells protect these organs by producing a lubricating fluid that allows them to move smoothly.

Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Much of the information provided in this site will address the topics and treatments around malignant mesothelioma. Symptoms are often typical of other less serious diseases and include coughing, fever, and shortness of breath.

Malignant mesothelioma, referred to as simply mesothelioma, has three main cell types:

• Epithelioid
• Sarcomatoid
• Mixed / biphasic

Epithelioid mesothelioma, the most common type, accounts for 50% to 70% of the cancer cells. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, the least common type, accounts for 7% to 20% of the cells. Biphasic, or a mixture of epithelioid and sarcomatoid, account for 20% to 35% of the cells.

The types of cells do not impact the prognosis or treatment of mesothelioma. The symptoms, however, can delay an appropriate diagnosis since they are often attributed to other common health issues.

Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is caused primarily by exposure to asbestos. Typically the asbestos exposure occurred in an profession or work environmentover a prolonged period of time. However, there have been cases where less exposure resulted in mesothelioma, including exposure to asbestos particles from washing clothes.

The Most Common Form of Mesothelioma

The majority of people who develop mesothelioma have worked in professions where they inhaled asbestos particles. This means mesothelioma that forms in the lungs, or pleural mesothelioma, is the most common form.

Other Forms of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma in the abdomen, called peritoneal mesothelioma, is not as common. Pericardial mesothelioma, which starts in the area around the heart, is very rare, as is mesothelioma that affects the covering of the testicles.
Malignant mesothelioma should not be confused with an adenomatoid tumor. These are benign tumors that develop in certain female and male reproductive organs and begin in the mesothelium.