Malignant Mesothelioma Types

Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is quite rare, is an uncommon form of cancerous tumors originating in the body tissue known as the mesothelium. It affects only the thin wall of cells that line the internal organs and structures.

The first type of malignant mesothelioma is called Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma. It is the most common type of mesothelioma making up approximately 75% of all mesothelioma cases. The pleura is a thin serous membrane found between the lungs and the chest cavity that provides a lubricated surface preventing the lungs from chafing against the chest walls. It also serves as a protective layer.

The second most common type of mesothelioma is Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma. The peritoneum is a thin serous membrane that encloses the organs of the abdomen. Peritoneal Mesothelioma is a rare form of malignant mesothelioma cancer. This disease accounts for approximately 10% to 20% of all mesothelioma cases.

The third type of mesothelioma is Malignant Pericardial Mesothelioma. The pericardium (heart sac) is the serous membrane that surrounds and protects the heart. It accounts for less than 10% of all mesothelioma cases.

Malignant Mesothelioma Causes and Diagnosis

Asbestos is the predominant cause of malignant mesothelioma of the visceral pleura. The period between the time of exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms is about 20 to 50 years. Because of this late onset, it occurs most commonly in the later years of life. It also occurs more often in men than in women.

Doctors in diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, usually make an incision through the chest wall and insert an instrument called a thoracoscope between two ribs to view the area. Doctors will then do a biopsy to select a tissue sample that can be analyzed under a microscope.

Stages of Malignant Mesothelioma

Stage I: The cancer is found in the lining of the chest cavity near the lung and heart or in the diaphragm or the lung.

Stage II: The cancer has spread beyond the lining of the chest to lymph nodes in the chest.

Stage III: Cancer has spread into the chest wall, center of the chest, heart, through the diaphragm, or abdominal lining, and in some cases into nearby lymph nodes.

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs or tissues.

Malignant Mesothelioma Treatment

Radiotherapy are used in situations where the cancer is localized at the point of origin. Chemotherapy is used in more advanced stages of malignant mesotheliomas. Cytoreductive surgery plus hyperthermic (heated) chemotherapy improves the survival and quality of life for patients with peritoneal metastases (tumors involving the lining of the abdomen).

For Stage I malignant mesothelioma, surgery is the option used. For stages II to IV, treatment by surgery is still evolving.

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