Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that originates in the mesothelium, a thin layer of flat cells that protect the body’s internal organs as they move within the chest and abdominal cavity. Mesothelioma initially develops in these thin layers; however, in later stages it may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body and cause serious health problems.
The only scientifically verified cause for mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. There is no known cure for mesothelioma; prognoses are generally poor because the cancer is typically very advanced by the time it is discovered.
There are three major forms of mesothelioma: pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Pleural mesothelioma, which comprises more than 75% of all diagnosed mesothelioma cases, affects the pleura, a sac that contains the lungs. Victims inhale asbestos fibers, which lodge in the pleural tissue and cause inflammation that eventually turns to tumors.
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Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the mesothelial lining of the abdominal cavity. It accounts for 15% to 20% of all mesothelioma cases diagnosed throughout the world, making it the second most common form of the disease. Opinions are divided on how asbestos actually makes its way into the abdomen. Theories range from ingestion to circulation through the lymphatic system. As with pleural mesothelioma, the fibers lead to inflammation and eventually tumors form.
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Pericardial Mesothelioma
The rarest of the three major forms of mesothelioma, pericardial mesothelioma attacks the lining of the heart, known as the pericardium. Scientists theorize that asbestos makes its way from the lungs into the bloodstream, circulating throughout the body and ultimately lodging in the heart. Tumor formation occurs through a similar mechanism to pleural mesothelioma.
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Benign Mesothelioma
While the vast majority of mesothelioma cases are malignant, some mesothelioma tumors are benign.
Sometimes referred to as a “solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura,” benign mesothelioma is usually not cancerous, though cancerous forms can occur from time to time. Appearing more in men than women, these tumors usually start in the tissues under the mesothelium, which is known as the submesothelium. A similar tumor may grow in the peritoneum, the lining of the abdomen.
The most important difference between benign mesothelioma tumors and the cancerous forms is that benign tumors do not spread, invading adjacent tissue. Cases of benign mesothelioma are easily treatable. In most cases surgery to remove the tumor is sufficient. On the other hand, malignant tumors often spread quickly, making treatment difficult.
Mesothelioma Cell Types
Mesothelioma manifests in three primary cell types. Prognosis, symptoms and treatment may differ based on the type of cell.
More you know: Mesothelioma Cell Types
SOURCE:
Cancer Research, UK. Types of Mesothelioma.
Cancer Research, UK. What is Mesothelioma?
National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health. Localized benign pleural mesothelioma: a case report.
www.maacenter.org/mesothelioma/types
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