Things You Need to Know About Mesothelioma
Have you ever wondered what is mesothelioma? Do you know what causes mesothelioma? Do you know what the different types of mesothelioma cells are? Are you finding out what are the different types of mesothelioma? The following article will give you the answers to the questions mentioned above.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is found in the lining of the chest and lung, the abdomen or the sac-like space around the heart.
There are basically 3 main types of mesothelioma cells. The first mesothelioma cell is epithelioid cells. This is the most frequent type as about 50 to 70% of mesothelioma are of this type. It affects the surrounding of internal organs and internal surfaces in the body. The second type of mesothelioma cells is known as sarcomatoid cells. This cell is much rarer, which makes up about 7 to 20% of mesothelioma. The last type of mesothelioma cells is the mixed or biphasic cells. This is the combination of first two types and it makes up about 20 to 35%.
This type of disease is usually caused by exposure to asbestos. Most people with this disease have worked on jobs where they breathe in asbestos fibers. For example, factory workers, repair workers, construction workers, asbestos miners and many others. Family members of people exposing to asbestos at work are also at an increased risk of contracting mesothelioma. This is mainly because asbestos fibers can be carried home by clothes, shoes, skins and hair of these workers and can be inhaled by others.
In addition, there are also three different types of mesothelioma:
#1- Pleural Mesothelioma
This is the most common form of mesothelioma which affects the Pleural surrounding the lungs.
#2- Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the thin cell membrane called the peritoneum and it surrounds the gastrointestinal tract and provides lubrication for the stomach and intestines so that it can function properly.
#3- Pericardial Mesothelioma
Pericardial Mesothelioma is one of the rarest types of mesothelioma which affects that pericardium. It is usually caused by an extended amount of exposure asbestos.
Although there are different types of mesothelioma, the treatment options are essentially the same for all types. However, the symptoms of the different types of mesothelioma are different. Therefore, the best way to prevent yourself and your family members from contracting with mesothelioma is to decrease one's exposure to asbestos in the workplace, at home and in the environment.
