Types of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that is unique to those who have been exposed to asbestos. For many years, mining companies have known about the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos exposure but chose not to inform their employees of the dangers of asbestos-containing materials.

Further, while many employees in asbestos-related industries became sick and suffered lung disease, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, some companies had their doctors falsely diagnose those employees with emphysema and lung cancer caused by smoking.

There are two common types of malignant mesothelioma: Pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma is cancer of the pleura, a sac that lines the lungs. The pleura is a membrane that lines the pleural cavities surrounding the lungs. When inhaled, asbestos fibers are absorbed into the lungs, eventually making their way to the edges of the lungs and into the pleura, causing lesions and scarring. Eventually, malignant mesothelioma cancer develops as a result of the damage caused by the asbestos fibers.

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma cancer; if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma, contact an attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to compensation.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Asbestos fibers can also affect the abdominal region, triggering the development of peritoneal mesothelioma. This type of cancer is just as dangerous as pleural mesothelioma.

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rarer form of cancer than pleural mesothelioma, accounting for roughly 10 percent of all mesothelioma cases.

While asbestos is to blame for peritoneal mesothelioma, it is not known exactly how asbestos fibers make their way into the peritoneal mesothelium. Peritoneal mesothelioma cancer affects the lining of the abdomen instead of the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. However, experts believe that asbestos fibers affect may be ingested into the stomach or are inhaled and make it to the peritoneum through the lymph node system.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

The pericardium is the membrane that lines the heart and serves to protect and support the organ. When dangerous asbestos fibers become lodged in the pericardium, mesothelioma can develop. Although experts are not sure how asbestos fibers get to the pericardium, it is believed that they travel to the heart from the lungs through the bloodstream.

Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form of mesothelioma.

Consult a Mesothelioma Attorney

Most people who suffer from malignant mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos on a daily basis over an extended period. You may be able to hold the party responsible for your asbestos exposure accountable for their negligent actions. Speak to a mesothelioma attorney as soon as possible to learn more about your legal options.