Information On The Different Types Of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is caused primarily by asbestos exposure. It can be either malignant or benign. Benign Mesothelioma occurs infrequently. There are three main types of malignant or cancerous Mesothelioma. These are Pleural or pleura Mesothelioma, pericardial Mesothelioma and peritonial Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis Testes is a less common form of the disease. Metastatic Mesothelioma is a term used to describe Mesothelioma that has spread from its origin to other parts of the body. Let's take a closer look at the types of Mesothelioma.
There are also different types of cancer cells involved in Mesothelioma. These are known as epithilioid, sarcomatoid and mixed or biphasic Mesothelioma. Epithilioid Mesothelioma is the most common of the different types of Mesothelioma. It affects the covering of organs and other internal surfaces. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma affects the actual tissues, bones, muscles and fat and is much more serious than epithilioid Mesothelioma. Mixed or biphasic Mesothelioma occurs when both sarcomatoid and epithilioid cancer cells are present. Getting the correct Mesothelioma diagnosis is very important as the different types of Mesothelioma often require different treatments.
Benign Mesothelioma is the non-malignant or non-cancerous form of Mesothelioma. The benign form of the disease must be watched closely as it can develop into the malignant version. Benign Mesothelioma does not spread like malignant forms of the disease. Benign tumors are diagnosed and treated in much the same way as malignant tumors. They also produce similar symptoms. Benign Mesothelioma is less common than it's more deadly counterpart.
Pleural or pleura Mesothelioma is the most common of the types of Mesothelioma. It accounts for roughly 75% of all Mesothelioma cases. Pleural Mesothelioma gets its name because it originates in the pleural sac or covering of the lungs. This type of Mesothelioma can also spread to the pleural cavity of the lungs. These invading asbestos fibers can cause the formation of tumors which hinder proper lung function in Mesothelioma patients. Pericardial Mesothelioma affects the region of the heart known as the pericardium. Asbestos fibers penetrate the heart and enter the pericardium cavity. The overgrowth of tissues and formation of fluid in the heart inhibit heart function in much the same way that pleura Mesothelioma tumors inhibit lung function.
Peritonial Mesothelioma is caused by ingesting asbestos or other fibrous matter. This occurs when inhaled fibers become trapped in the mucous in the mouth and throat. They are then swallowed and admitted entry to the digestive system. They penetrate the peritonium or membrane surrounding the stomach. There tumors are formed which inhibit digestion. Tunica vaginalis testis Mesothelioma is a very rare form of the disease. Less than 100 cases have been reported and confirmed. This type of Mesothelioma occurs when fibers penetrate the mesothelial lining of the testicles. A fluid filled sac often surrounds the testis. This has been likened to a hernia. Treatment normally involves complete removal of the testis.
Metastatic Mesothelioma is Mesothelioma which has spread to other parts of the body or metathesized. Cancer cells use the bloodstream to travel to other regions of the body. Some of these cells can attach themselves to other organs and cause tumors to grow. Organs and lymph nodes near the original site of the Mesothelioma are especially susceptible to metastatic Mesothelioma, although it can spread to other regions as well. These different types of Mesothelioma will all require their own unique treatments as what could work on the one type will not necessarily work on the other.
