Many people assume that mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer. While this is partially true, it’s not the full story. This article will discuss what mesothelioma actually is and the different types that are found.

Pleural Mesothelioma

When people refer to mesothelioma and lung cancer, this is usually what is being talked about. Pleural mesothelioma typically starts in the lungs. The cancer cells are found in the lining, or mesothelial cells. Pleural mesothelioma can metastasize quickly to other areas of the body, including the brain.

This is also not a very detectable form of cancer, and diagnosing it is different than diagnosing other forms of cancer. In most cancers a serum marker is used to identify the cancerous cells. There is no marker available for mesothelioma, so other forms of diagnostics need to be used. The survival rate for those diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma is low. 8% of those diagnosed will survive 5 years beyond the diagnosis.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the abdomen, and can spread to other organs in the area, including the spleen, live, and bowel. Symptoms can include painful bowel movements, fever, severe abdominal pain, and sometimes swollen feet. Those diagnosed with this type of mesothelioma typically only survive around 10 months.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma affects the heart. This is the least common type. Pericardial mesothelioma affects the sacs that surround the heart. It affects the way oxygen reaches the heart, and eventually stifles the ability entirely. This type of mesothelioma has symptoms similar to that of a heart attack.

Benign Versus Malignant Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma can also manifest in benign or malignant forms. Benign mesothelioma still needs to be watched closely to ensure it doesn’t cause further problem, but can typically be successfully treated. Malignant mesothelioma on the other hand is very serious and has a low survival rate. Malignant mesothelioma is primarily caused by breathing in airborne asbestos particles. There can also be a prolonged latency period between the time of exposure and the presentation of symptoms.

Other Types of Mesothelioma

While rare, mesothelioma can manifest on other areas as well. Tumors can be associated with mesothelioma, and these can be harder to detect. Some specialists have reported patients with mesothelioma cells in ovaries, spleen, and testicles. The prognosis for these forms of mesothelioma is grim, as it’s hard to detect and diagnose. Typically by the time it is found the disease has progressed too far for successful treatment.