Types of Mesothelioma
In addition to the most well-known types of mesothelioma which are pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma, and pericardial mesothelioma, there are several other types of this cancer that may help medical researchers to better understand how the cancer forms and what may be done about it. The formation of these tumors and cysts, how they differ from each other, and why they don’t always become malignant all offer scientists invaluable information in their efforts to learn more about mesothelioma as well as other forms of cancer.
While most cases of mesothelial tumors are malignant, a small percentage of benign tumors have been known to occur. Some of these benign tumors include:
Adenomatoid Tumors
- Known to develop in reproductive organs of both men and women
- When present they are usually found in the male epididymus and testes
- In females, these benign tumors are usually found in the fallopian tubes
- Also known to occur in the pancreas
Benign Cystic Mesothelioma
- These tumors form in the mesothelium of female reproductive organs
- High rate of recurrence after surgical removal
- Commonly treated with hormonal therapy
Benign Fibrous Mesothelioma
- Benign tumors that can develop in the pleura of the lungs
- Found more often in men
- Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough
- Reoccurs in ten percent of patients
Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Peritoneum
- Benign or malignant tumors that can form in the peritoneum of the abdomen
- More common in women than in men
- Usually found in older people
These are just a few examples of the less common types of mesothelioma that may occur and researchers are continuing to learn from them and developing treatments to treat them. It’s important to remember that many times mesothelioma is asymptomatic which means that someone with mesothelioma may experience few, if any, symptoms at all.