What Type Of Cancer Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancerous tumor that involves the mesothelioma cells of an internal organ, most commonly the lungs, heart or abdominal organs. Mesothelioma, like other types of cancer (e.g., adenocarcinoma), typically consists of two general types — benign and malignant.

By far the most common mesothelioma is diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is often referred to as lung cancer because it involves the pleura, a thin membrane that lubricates the lung surfaces, so they do not chafe against the chest walls. This type of tumor is invasive and very aggressive and can spread quickly over the surface of the lungs, abdominal organs or heart. Life expectancy for victims of this disease typically ranges between four and 24 months, depending on the stage at which the disease is detected, the relative health and strength of the patient, and a variety of other factors. The average patient with diffuse malignant pleural mesothelioma survives between four and 12 months from the onset of symptoms. However, with proper care, some victims have survived for several years.

Peritoneal mesothelioma involves the peritoneum, a membrane surrounding the abdominal organs. This type of mesothelioma is not as common as pleural mesothelioma, but it can be more invasive and more deadly. Mesothelioma tumors have also been found in the stomach and other abdominal organs.

Exposure to asbestos is known to cause other types of cancer, not just mesothelioma. If you were exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, esophageal cancer, colon cancer or rectal cancer, you may have a claim against the companies that manufactured the asbestos or product containing asbestos that caused your illness.

For legal advice regarding mesothelioma or other asbestos-related cancers, contact the trial lawyers at Kelley Ferraro, LLC, by calling us at 216-238-8654 or by connecting with us online.