What Type Of Cancer Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancerous tumor that commonly attacks the lungs. It can also damage the heart and other internal organs. Mesothelioma, like other types of cancer (e.g., adenocarcinoma), typically consists of two general types – benign and malignant.

Pleural mesothelioma, the most common form of the disease, is a form of lung cancer. It impacts the pleura, which is a lubricating membrane that surrounds the lungs and enables them to glide smoothly against the rib cage. 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.

A less common form of the disease is peritoneal mesothelioma, which damages the membrane surrounding the abdominal organs. This type can be more invasive and aggressive than pleural mesothelioma. Mesothelioma tumors have also been found in other internal organs, including the stomach.

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 our trial lawyers at Kelley Ferraro, LLC, by calling 216.575.0777 or connecting with us online.