Mesothelioma is form of cancer that develops after exposure to asbestos. It starts by invading the mesothelium area and works its’ way until it develops tumors in the chest cavity. In some types of mesothelima the pleura is also affected, as is the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart). It is very important for doctors to properly determine what type of mesothelioma the patient is suffering from, in order to choose the appropriate mesothelioma treatment method.
Types of Mesothelioma
There are several types of mesothelioma, but researchers have narrowed the list down to three basic types, as follows:
These mesothelioma types are the most common, if they can be called so, but, as stated above, there are further types, including pericardial, abdominal, epithelial and malignant mesothelioma. It is interesting how each type is different from the other and requires different treatment methods, different diagnosis and has different prognosis numbers. Each type of mesothelioma is named after the region that the cancer starts to develop from, but all types have something very important in common: they are all caused by exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma Caused by Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral that is consisted of tiny fibers which are easily swallowed or inhaled by humans. These tiny fibers can cause the tissue in the abdominal or chest region to develop into cancerous tissue, or create an environment suitable for other diseases to develop, such as asbestosis.
Mesothelioma Types and Treatments
There is a slight possibility that two types of cancer develop at the same time, in which case it is called mixed or biphasic mesothelioma cancer. Only 0,5% of all mesothelioma patients encounter this rare development of the disease, and when it does occur, chances of survival are very slim.
Because of all these types of mesothelioma, doctors and specialists try to develop diagnosis methods by the means of which they are able to determine if it is mesothelioma affecting the body, and if it is, what type. As mentioned above, the type of mesothelioma treatment is based on the type of mesothelioma cancer. There is one more thing you should know, all types of mesothelioma cause similar symptoms. Also, the most common type (epithelial mesothelioma) is also the less difficult to treat and offers the highest survival rates.
More Mesothelioma Types Information
Contact asbestosis and mesothelioma centers and ask about mesothelima types and how they can be diagnosed and treated properly. Remember, contacting us is absolutely free.